Matt Loede

In this edition on Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley wrap up the 2021 season and forecast the possibilities for the Guardians in 2022. They also pay tribute to late longtime Cleveland sports journalist Matt Loede.

In this edition on Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley wrap up the 2021 season and forecast the possibilities for the Guardians in 2022. They also pay tribute to late longtime Cleveland sports journalist Matt Loede.

Ryan and Ashley wrap up the 2021 season and pay tribute to Matt Loede.

On this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about Cleveland's last home game as the Indians, Shane Bieber's return to the mound and the Akron Rubberducks Double-A Northeast League Championship win. 

On this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about Cleveland's last home game as the Indians, Shane Bieber's return to the mound and the Akron Rubberducks Double-A Northeast League Championship win.

End of an era: Guardians on the way, Bieber is back and the Akron Rubberducks

In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about the return of Shane Bieber for Friday’s game against the White Sox in Chicago. It will be his first time on the mound for Cleveland since June. They also talk about how the front office will shape the roster heading into 2022, James Karinchak’s progress in Columbus, outfielder-turned-pitcher Anthony Gose talking about how he’s “too stupid to quit,” and much more. In the pop culture portion of the podcast, they recap wins and losses from the Emmys.

In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about the return of Shane Bieber for Friday’s game against the White Sox in Chicago. It will be his first time on the mound for Cleveland since June. They also talk about how the front office will shape the roster heading into 2022, James Karinchak’s progress in Columbus, outfielder-turned-pitcher Anthony Gose talking about how he’s “too stupid to quit,” and much more. In the pop culture portion of the podcast, they recap wins and losses from the Emmys.

Bieber fever: Cleveland’s ace returns to the mound

Zach Plesac

Logan Allen

Ryan and Ashley talk Ryan’s visit to Harry Potter World, and Ryan’s beef is apparently squashed with Daniel Radcliffe. They then discuss the adjustments made by Logan Allen, Emmanuel Clase’s  progression, Ryan Larvarnway saving Cleveland from some dubious history and manager Terry Francona’s health situation. They also talk about Zack Plesac’s bad luck being on the opposing side of three no-hitters.

Ryan and Ashley talk Ryan’s visit to Harry Potter World, and Ryan’s beef is apparently squashed with Daniel Radcliffe. They then discuss the adjustments made by Logan Allen, Emmanuel Clase’s  progression, Ryan Larvarnway saving Cleveland from some dubious history and manager Terry Francona’s health situation. They also talk about Zack Plesac’s bad luck being on the opposing side of three no-hitters.

Logan Allen’s curveball, Zach Plesac’s bad luck and a visit to Harry Potter World

Daniel Radcliffe

Roberto Perez

Amed Rosario

In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about Roberto Perez and his progress in Akron, Amed Rosario’s 5-for-5 night, the ups and downs of Logan Allen,  James Karinchak and Bradley Zimmer and Ryan’s beef with “Harry Potter” star Daniel Radcliffe.   Note: The next edition of Leading Off will post Sept. 16. 

In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about Roberto Perez and his progress in Akron, Amed Rosario’s 5-for-5 night, the ups and downs of Logan Allen,  James Karinchak and Bradley Zimmer and Ryan’s beef with “Harry Potter” star Daniel Radcliffe.   Note: The next edition of Leading Off will post Sept. 16.

Roberto Perez, Amed Rosario, Logan Allen and Ryan’s beef with Daniel Radcliffe

In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about what the recent loss of Tristan McKenzie means for the team going forward. They also give an update on manager Terry Francona’s health, talk about the team’s middle infield and outfield situations, Bobby Bradley’s emergence at first base and the future of Roberto Perez. They close with another “pop culture” corner and give their latest bingeworthy TV picks.

In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about what the recent loss of Tristan McKenzie means for the team going forward. They also give an update on manager Terry Francona’s health, talk about the team’s middle infield and outfield situations, Bobby Bradley’s emergence at first base and the future of Roberto Perez. They close with another “pop culture” corner and give their latest bingeworthy TV picks.

Positives from negatives: Injuries, rehabs, setting up for 2022, COVID tests and ‘Ted Lasso’

In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about Cleveland’s extra inning loss to the Twins. Tristan McKenzie flirts with greatness and chats all the way through it, and the team’s starting rotation outlook comes into focus. They also talk about the "Field of Dreams" game between the White Sox and the Yankees.

In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about Cleveland’s extra inning loss to the Twins. Tristan McKenzie flirts with greatness and chats all the way through it, and the team’s starting rotation outlook comes into focus. They also talk about the "Field of Dreams" game between the White Sox and the Yankees.

‘Go the distance’: Cleveland’s starting rotation comes into focus and the ‘Field of Dreams' game

On this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about Cleveland’s new lease at Progressive Field and recap the team’s trade deals. They also talk about manager Terry Francona stepping down for the remainder of the 2021 season and their love of the summer olympics.  Show note: The next episode of Leading Off will post Aug. 19. 

On this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about Cleveland’s new lease at Progressive Field and recap the team’s trade deals. They also talk about manager Terry Francona stepping down for the remainder of the 2021 season and their love of the summer olympics.  Show note: The next episode of Leading Off will post Aug. 19.

Talking trades, Tito and gold medals: Leading Off podcast

In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about the Cesar Hernandez trade and how the team’s situation at the trade deadline is more complicated than “buy” or “sell.” They also discuss the possibility of a Jose Ramirez trade and future contract, and how the organization settled on “Guardians” as the new team name.

In this edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk about the Cesar Hernandez trade and how the team’s situation at the trade deadline is more complicated than “buy” or “sell.” They also discuss the possibility of a Jose Ramirez trade and future contract, and how the organization settled on “Guardians” as the new team name.

Guardians of the trade deadline

In this week’s edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk injury updates and what the team needs to do to stay within striking distance of a playoff spot. They discuss the progress of the team’s young pitching rotation, Franmil Reyes’ power and the potential prank war on tap with the Tampa Bay Rays. They close with a fantasy draft of comedian Bo Burnham’s recent Netflix special, “Inside,” and Ashley is not a happy camper.

In this week’s edition of Leading Off, Ryan and Ashley talk injury updates and what the team needs to do to stay within striking distance of a playoff spot. They discuss the progress of the team’s young pitching rotation, Franmil Reyes’ power and the potential prank war on tap with the Tampa Bay Rays. They close with a fantasy draft of comedian Bo Burnham’s recent Netflix special, “Inside,” and Ashley is not a happy camper.

Ryan and Ashley’s ‘Inside’ edition: Young pitchers, Reyes’ power and the comedy of Bo Burnham

Leading Off with Ryan Lewis: A podcast on the Cleveland Indians.

Leading Off with Ryan Lewis: A podcast on Cleveland baseball

With the All-Star Game in the rear view mirror, and the second half well underway, the Cleveland Indians will soon face a major decision. Baseball's July 31 trade deadline is fast approaching, and the Indians have to decide whether they'll be buyers or sellers. That is, unless they manage to be both. On this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast, we re-assess what direction the Indians could go later this month. If the Indians are acquiring players, we discuss the position they could target, and a couple specific players who could be in mind. That's not all on this week's show. Here's what else we covered: - Some final thoughts on a memorable All-Star Game in Akron.  - Health updates on players like Corey Kluber and Danny Salazar. - If Salazar makes his way back to Cleveland, where he could help the most. - The struggles of rookie Bobby Bradley, and if he could potentially be sent back down to Triple-A if he doesn't improve.

With the All-Star Game in the rear view mirror, and the second half well underway, the Cleveland Indians will soon face a major decision. Baseball's July 31 trade deadline is fast approaching, and the Indians have to decide whether they'll be buyers or sellers. That is, unless they manage to be both. On this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast, we re-assess what direction the Indians could go later this month. If the Indians are acquiring players, we discuss the position they could target, and a couple specific players who could be in mind. That's not all on this week's show. Here's what else we covered: - Some final thoughts on a memorable All-Star Game in Akron.  - Health updates on players like Corey Kluber and Danny Salazar. - If Salazar makes his way back to Cleveland, where he could help the most. - The struggles of rookie Bobby Bradley, and if he could potentially be sent back down to Triple-A if he doesn't improve.

Where the Cleveland Indians stand with the trade deadline approaching

Oscar Mercado

After a forgetful weekend series against the Chicago White Sox, the Cleveland Indians are slumping further into the American League Central division. There are still some interesting bright spots for the Tribe. That would be the team's youngest players, called up from Triple-A this season. On this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis, we talk about them. That includes a way-too-early assessment of starting pitcher Zach Plesac. He's started just two games, but they've been encouraging. Like Yefry Rodriguez earlier this season, Plesac could help the Indians feel more comfortable trading a veteran starting pitcher. We also talked about the play of outfielder Oscar Mercado. The spring training darling has looked good batting second in the order. But when Tyler Naquin and Bradley Zimmer return, the Indians will have a difficult decision to make.  The final youngster we discuss this week is still in the minors. That would be first baseman Bobby Bradley. He's leading the International League in home runs. Ryan explains what is holding him back on the power-starved Indians. We also get in some MLB Draft talk, and a ridiculous prediction.

After a forgetful weekend series against the Chicago White Sox, the Cleveland Indians are slumping further into the American League Central division. There are still some interesting bright spots for the Tribe. That would be the team's youngest players, called up from Triple-A this season. On this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis, we talk about them. That includes a way-too-early assessment of starting pitcher Zach Plesac. He's started just two games, but they've been encouraging. Like Yefry Rodriguez earlier this season, Plesac could help the Indians feel more comfortable trading a veteran starting pitcher. We also talked about the play of outfielder Oscar Mercado. The spring training darling has looked good batting second in the order. But when Tyler Naquin and Bradley Zimmer return, the Indians will have a difficult decision to make.  The final youngster we discuss this week is still in the minors. That would be first baseman Bobby Bradley. He's leading the International League in home runs. Ryan explains what is holding him back on the power-starved Indians. We also get in some MLB Draft talk, and a ridiculous prediction.

Assessing Cleveland Indians youngsters Zach Plesac and Oscar Mercado

Trevor Bauer

Toss

The idea for this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast was supposed to fully be about the upcoming MLB trade deadline on Wednesday. Then Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Trevor Bauer decided to launch a baseball from the pitcher's mound over the outfield wall at Kauffman Stadium on Sunday. Now, Bauer's long toss may not lead to a trade. And really, throwing a baseball is far from a big offense. But it's just another incident with Bauer. The real damage will be if he gets suspended by the league. Anyway, the trade deadline on Wednesday. The Indians made a minor trade over the weekend, acquiring relief pitcher Hunter Wood and infielder Christian Arroyo. Is that the only move the team will make?  Ryan explains what the Indians could do and why they're doing it. He also details Cleveland's philosophy when it comes to making trades.

The idea for this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast was supposed to fully be about the upcoming MLB trade deadline on Wednesday. Then Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Trevor Bauer decided to launch a baseball from the pitcher's mound over the outfield wall at Kauffman Stadium on Sunday. Now, Bauer's long toss may not lead to a trade. And really, throwing a baseball is far from a big offense. But it's just another incident with Bauer. The real damage will be if he gets suspended by the league. Anyway, the trade deadline on Wednesday. The Indians made a minor trade over the weekend, acquiring relief pitcher Hunter Wood and infielder Christian Arroyo. Is that the only move the team will make?  Ryan explains what the Indians could do and why they're doing it. He also details Cleveland's philosophy when it comes to making trades.

Trevor Bauer's long toss, the Indians' trade deadline decision

The Cleveland Indians have turned their season around, just in time for the All-Star break. The Indians are 50-38 on the season, and hold one of the two wild card positions. That doesn't tell the full story, though. Cleveland has cut Minnesota's lead in the American League Central to 5.5 games at the break after going 22-9 since June 1. On this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast, we look back on the first half for the Indians, and how they got to where they are. We also pick out a team MVP. It's not as easy of a choice as you might think. We also talk about something that was surprising in the first half of the season. But this week's podcast starts off with some serious business. That is to say, some serious Home Run Derby business. After disclosing our Home Run Derby fandom on last week's podcast, this week we make our picks. And we put a bet on it. If you're looking for more All-Star game coverage, find everything at ohio.com/indians.

The Cleveland Indians have turned their season around, just in time for the All-Star break. The Indians are 50-38 on the season, and hold one of the two wild card positions. That doesn't tell the full story, though. Cleveland has cut Minnesota's lead in the American League Central to 5.5 games at the break after going 22-9 since June 1. On this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast, we look back on the first half for the Indians, and how they got to where they are. We also pick out a team MVP. It's not as easy of a choice as you might think. We also talk about something that was surprising in the first half of the season. But this week's podcast starts off with some serious business. That is to say, some serious Home Run Derby business. After disclosing our Home Run Derby fandom on last week's podcast, this week we make our picks. And we put a bet on it. If you're looking for more All-Star game coverage, find everything at <a href="https://www.ohio.com/sports/indians" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ohio.com/indians.</a>

Assessing the Cleveland Indians at the All-Star break

Jose Ramirez

Despite winning a three-game series against the Kansas City Royals, the Indians had a rough weekend. Starting third baseman Jose Ramirez broke the hamate bone in his right hand, and the team is still waiting to hear how long he'll be out. What does the Tribe do without him? We talked about that on this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast. Here are the topics we hit on: - The first answer for the Indians could be keeping power hitting designated hitter Franmil Reyes hitting fifth. If that's not the plan, we talk about what the team could do. - What Ramirez's replacement, Yu Chang, could bring to the team and how he's viewed in the team's plans for the future. - How Mike Freeman could factor into things after looking solid in sporadic starts this season. - Our brief hot takes on the jerseys for Players Weekend. Indians manager Terry Francona didn't like them. We had a slightly different opinion.

Despite winning a three-game series against the Kansas City Royals, the Indians had a rough weekend. Starting third baseman Jose Ramirez broke the hamate bone in his right hand, and the team is still waiting to hear how long he'll be out. What does the Tribe do without him? We talked about that on this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast. Here are the topics we hit on: - The first answer for the Indians could be keeping power hitting designated hitter Franmil Reyes hitting fifth. If that's not the plan, we talk about what the team could do. - What Ramirez's replacement, Yu Chang, could bring to the team and how he's viewed in the team's plans for the future. - How Mike Freeman could factor into things after looking solid in sporadic starts this season. - Our brief hot takes on the jerseys for Players Weekend. Indians manager Terry Francona didn't like them. We had a slightly different opinion.

How the Indians can get by without Jose Ramirez and still make a playoff push

Brad Hand

In his last three games, Cleveland Indians closer Brad Hand has allowed five runs and eight hits in three innings. As the Indians continue to push for the playoffs, is it time to be concerned about Hand's effectiveness?  Before we get there on this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast, we cover these topics:  - The Indians are coming off their toughest stretch of games this season, winning a series against the Twins, losing a series to the Red Sox and splitting a series with the Yankees. Ryan gives his thoughts on how the team played over the stretch and what we learned about the team, especially when it was without Yasiel Puig in the middle of the batting order. - Corey Kluber suffered a setback in his latest rehab start, exiting the game after an inning due to an abdominal strain. What does this mean for his comeback? And if Kluber does return to the Indians this season, which starter is at risk of losing his spot in the rotation? - Carlos Carrasco is also starting to work his way back. We explain that while it's a great story, be hesitant with your expectations for the starter. - More with Hand: We wondered, do the scars of Indians closers past taint the public opinion of Hand?  - Ryan explains the pitch that Hand has faltered on, and what could be the cause of his recent struggles.

In his last three games, Cleveland Indians closer Brad Hand has allowed five runs and eight hits in three innings. As the Indians continue to push for the playoffs, is it time to be concerned about Hand's effectiveness?  Before we get there on this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast, we cover these topics:  - The Indians are coming off their toughest stretch of games this season, winning a series against the Twins, losing a series to the Red Sox and splitting a series with the Yankees. Ryan gives his thoughts on how the team played over the stretch and what we learned about the team, especially when it was without Yasiel Puig in the middle of the batting order. - Corey Kluber suffered a setback in his latest rehab start, exiting the game after an inning due to an abdominal strain. What does this mean for his comeback? And if Kluber does return to the Indians this season, which starter is at risk of losing his spot in the rotation? - Carlos Carrasco is also starting to work his way back. We explain that while it's a great story, be hesitant with your expectations for the starter. - More with Hand: We wondered, do the scars of Indians closers past taint the public opinion of Hand?  - Ryan explains the pitch that Hand has faltered on, and what could be the cause of his recent struggles.

Should we be concerned about Indians closer Brad Hand?

When June started, the Cleveland Indians were 29-29, far behind the Minnesota Twins in the American League Central division and battling for a wild card playoff spot. The Indians have surged back, going 15-6 in June and now 43-35 on the season. On this week's edition of the Leading Off with Ryan Lewis, we talk about how the team has gotten so hot in June. Leading the way is second baseman Jason Kipnis. After a slow start to the season, Kipnis has hit .410 in the last 10 games, including a walk-off home run on Monday night. A changed swing is helping. Third baseman Jose Ramirez is also starting to find his swing. This week we also covered these topics: - Bobby Bradley finally getting called up, and his spot in the every day lineup - Thoughts on Carlos Santana potentially being in the Home Run Derby, and why it won't mess up his swing. - An important piece of vacation advice from Ryan.

When June started, the Cleveland Indians were 29-29, far behind the Minnesota Twins in the American League Central division and battling for a wild card playoff spot. The Indians have surged back, going 15-6 in June and now 43-35 on the season. On this week's edition of the Leading Off with Ryan Lewis, we talk about how the team has gotten so hot in June. Leading the way is second baseman Jason Kipnis. After a slow start to the season, Kipnis has hit .410 in the last 10 games, including a walk-off home run on Monday night. A changed swing is helping. Third baseman Jose Ramirez is also starting to find his swing. This week we also covered these topics: - Bobby Bradley finally getting called up, and his spot in the every day lineup - Thoughts on Carlos Santana potentially being in the Home Run Derby, and why it won't mess up his swing. - An important piece of vacation advice from Ryan.

How the Cleveland Indians got hot in June

The Cleveland Indians have arguably been the best team in baseball in July. Going into Tuesday night's game at the Toronto Blue Jays, the team is 13-3 on the month. But can that pace be sustained?  On this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast we cover that topic, and some interesting stats the Indians have accumulated in the month. Of course, it has ramifications on what the team could do at the trade deadline. We also have another call for the Indians the rest of baseball to extend the netting down the line after a 3-year-old fan was struck by a ball hit by Franisco Lindor recently. We close out the week's podcast with some thoughts on Indians and Blue Jays playing a game that will only air on television on YouTube. Is that really a good thing for baseball and Indians fans? 

The Cleveland Indians have arguably been the best team in baseball in July. Going into Tuesday night's game at the Toronto Blue Jays, the team is 13-3 on the month. But can that pace be sustained?  On this week's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast we cover that topic, and some interesting stats the Indians have accumulated in the month. Of course, it has ramifications on what the team could do at the trade deadline. We also have another call for the Indians the rest of baseball to extend the netting down the line after a 3-year-old fan was struck by a ball hit by Franisco Lindor recently. We close out the week's podcast with some thoughts on Indians and Blue Jays playing a game that will only air on television on YouTube. Is that really a good thing for baseball and Indians fans?

Can the Cleveland Indians sustain their hot July pace?

Between recordings of the Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast the Cleveland went and pulled off a blockbuster trade. The team shipped starting pitcher Trevor Bauer out and brought in power hitters Yasiel Puig and Franmil Reyes, along with several other players.  On this week's Leading Off, we talk about the trade and how Puig and Reyes are helping beef up the Indians' offense. We also talk about how it's taking some of the pressure off Franicsco Lindor and Carlos Santana. This week we also discuss two of Cleveland's young starting pitchers, Shane Bieber and Aaron Civale. Both 2016 draftees, they're showing off Cleveland's ability to draft and develop starters as questions remain about Corey Kluber and Carlos Carrasco. They also exist plenty of Danny Salazar, who struggled in his first start in the majors in two years. Bieber is obviously a big part of Cleveland's success this season. In fact, the All-Star might be one of the most valuable players in baseball when you consider his contract. Can Civale become a similar type of player for the Tribe? We talk about it this week.

Between recordings of the Leading Off with Ryan Lewis podcast the Cleveland went and pulled off a blockbuster trade. The team shipped starting pitcher Trevor Bauer out and brought in power hitters Yasiel Puig and Franmil Reyes, along with several other players.  On this week's Leading Off, we talk about the trade and how Puig and Reyes are helping beef up the Indians' offense. We also talk about how it's taking some of the pressure off Franicsco Lindor and Carlos Santana. This week we also discuss two of Cleveland's young starting pitchers, Shane Bieber and Aaron Civale. Both 2016 draftees, they're showing off Cleveland's ability to draft and develop starters as questions remain about Corey Kluber and Carlos Carrasco. They also exist plenty of Danny Salazar, who struggled in his first start in the majors in two years. Bieber is obviously a big part of Cleveland's success this season. In fact, the All-Star might be one of the most valuable players in baseball when you consider his contract. Can Civale become a similar type of player for the Tribe? We talk about it this week.

First impressions of a beefed up Indians offense

The Cleveland Indians are coming off series wins against the Minnesota Twins and New York Yankees. Although the team didn't gain much ground in the playoff race, the results are impressive nonetheless. On today's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis, we cover the team's recent play and how catcher Roberto Perez has helped power the Indians to victory. As Ryan explains, maybe Perez just needed a consistent opportunity as a starter. Perez is now second on the team with 11 home runs. But as Perez excels, two Indians outfielders are struggling. Jake Bauers and Leonys Martin are both striking out at a high rate. What is the future for both as the season progresses? We close this week's show talking about the starting pitching situation for the Indians. The team was dealt a serious blow when it was announced that Carlos Carrasco had to step away from the game. But Mike Clevinger should soon be returning and helping to solidify Cleveland's starting rotation.

The Cleveland Indians are coming off series wins against the Minnesota Twins and New York Yankees. Although the team didn't gain much ground in the playoff race, the results are impressive nonetheless. On today's Leading Off with Ryan Lewis, we cover the team's recent play and how catcher Roberto Perez has helped power the Indians to victory. As Ryan explains, maybe Perez just needed a consistent opportunity as a starter. Perez is now second on the team with 11 home runs. But as Perez excels, two Indians outfielders are struggling. Jake Bauers and Leonys Martin are both striking out at a high rate. What is the future for both as the season progresses? We close this week's show talking about the starting pitching situation for the Indians. The team was dealt a serious blow when it was announced that Carlos Carrasco had to step away from the game. But Mike Clevinger should soon be returning and helping to solidify Cleveland's starting rotation.

Roberto Perez's power surge is boosting the Indians

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