The timing of Danny Salazar's return to the rotation seems to serve two purposes for the Tribe. First, the team can get a look at him again against Major League hitters again and gauge his progress. Next, Salazar will be able to start twice before the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline, allowing the Indians time to explore their potential need for another starting pitcher.
If Salazar looks sharp, healthy and confident again, the right-hander might be better -- acquisition cost and other factors considered -- than anything Cleveland could acquire via trade. Targeting someone like A's pitcher Sonny Gray makes a lot of sense, but maybe the Indians' rotation can be solidified by Salazar's return and Mike Clevinger's emergence.