PREVIEW: Indians welcome Orioles to Progressive Field for 3-game series

CLEVELAND-- The Cleveland Indians will take on the Baltimore Orioles in a three-game series this weekend.

The Indians come into this weekend series riding a five-game winning streak. The Indians are currently 69-51 on the season. They are also coming off a sweep against the Cincinnati Reds. The O’s are currently 36-85 on the season.

First pitch: 7:10 p.m.

Starting pitchers: CLE Carlos Carrasco (14-6, 3.60 ERA) vs. BAL David Hess (2-6, 6.25 ERA)

TV: SportsTime Ohio

Online: MLB.TV

Radio: WTAM 1100 AM, WMMS 100.7 FM, Indians Radio Network

Here are three keys for tonight’s game.

1. Take care of business

There is no reason why the Indians shouldn’t sweep the Baltimore Orioles this weekend. After all, the O’s are currently 49 games under .500. Their record is currently 36-85. They’ve shipped out superstar shortstop Manny Machado, and second baseman Jonathan Schoop.

2. Cookie continues to deal

Since July 1, Carrasco has a record of 8-3. More importantly, his ERA is 1.31 in the month of August. In July, his ERA was 5.21. Not only has Carlos returned to being one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball, but he has become even more important to the Tribe with RHP Trevor Bauer on the 10-Day D.L. with a stress fracture.

3. Timely hitting and early scoring

This is important. When the Indians score early and get a lead they are nearly unbeatable. But more importantly, the Indians' clutch hitting has drastically improved in the last couple of months. The Indians are currently preparing for the postseason. Between now and the end of season continuing to improve in these areas are so important to this team.