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Smoke signals

• One area that the Indians have struggled with this season has been consistency from their left-handed relievers. Heading into Wednesday's game, Cleveland's lefty bullpen arms -- Nick Hagadone, Rich Hill, Scott Barnes and David Huff (no longer with the team) -- had combined for a 7.61 ERA with a 1.65 WHIP. Francona remains optimistic about the southpaws on hand.

"I think we have the right combination," Francona said. "I just don't think we've had the right results yet. When they get rolling, it'll definitely complement our bullpen. There's no denying that. And to be pretty honest, it makes it harder for me, because we have some pretty good right-handers. So you try to pick the right spot. That's been a little bit of a challenge for me lately."

• Indians backup catcher Lou Marson, who has been on the disabled list since April 25 due to a right shoulder injury, is still dealing with soreness and has been pulled from his Minor League rehab assignment with Columbus. Francona noted that Marson recently met with renowned arm specialist Dr. James Andrews. The Indians are expected to provide a more detailed update soon. There is currently no timetable for Marson's return.

• The Indians announced Wednesday that they have signed four players selected in the First-Year Player Draft. Cleveland has signed right-hander Trevor Frank (eighth round out of the University of California Riverside), catcher Shane Rowland (20th round out of the University of Tampa), infielder Grant Fink (23rd round out of Missouri Western State College) and infielder Mike Giuffre (36th round out of Brookdale Community College in New Jersey).

Jordan Bastian is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Major League Bastian, and follow him on Twitter @MLBastian.
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