Indians call up Trevor Bauer, will start Wednesday

The Cleveland Indians called up top pitching prospect Trevor Bauer on Wednesday. Bauer is expected to start against the Philadelphia Phillies tonight.

To make room for him on the roster, the Indians optioned pitcher Nick Hagadone to Triple-A, reports the Cleveland Plains Dealer. Hagadone has been very good in eight relief appearances for Cleveland, posting a 2.45 ERA and 9.8 K/9. Hagadone struggled heavily with his control, but was also nearly unhittable.

The Indians acquired Bauer from the Cleveland Indians in a three team trade that included the Cincinnati Reds this past offseason. Arizona felt comfortable trading away Bauer as they have a number of other top pitching prospects. In addition, Bauer has been rumored to have attitude issues.

Bauer has been phenomenal in the minor leagues since making his professional debut in 2011. Over 22 starts between Double-A and Triple-A in 2012, he had just a 2.42 ERA and a 10.8 K/9. He made a largely unsuccessful series of starts in the majors for Arizona at the end of that season.

This year, he made one spot start for the Indians, allowing three runs on seven walks in five innings against the Tampa Bay Rays. In the minors, he has made three starts with a 2.50 ERA. He has had issues with allowing walks in his career, but so far has been able to get by with great stuff.

Bauer is just making a spot start, but it's possible a good pitching performance could help him remain on the roster. It would certainly be unsurprising to see him in the majors full time soon, his talent is undeniable. If he can improve his control, he should be a great starter for the Indians.