Smoke signals

• It is a small sample size, but Francona has liked what he has seen from Swisher and Cabrera since moving them to the lineup's second and fourth spots, respectively. In three games since the switch, Swisher has hit .333 (4-for-12) with one home run and Cabrera has hit .364 (4-for-11) with one homer and four RBIs.

"I like it," Francona said. "Teams are so aware when [leadoff man Michael Bourn] is on ... and we've seen a few instances where they've left fastballs up that have led to rallies. Swish is taking pitches, and Cabby's got a couple big hits hitting fourth. I like it."

• Antonetti confirmed what Francona mentioned earlier this week: Cleveland has not ruled out using starting pitching prospect Danny Salazar as a reliever later this season. The Indians are closely monitoring Salazar's innings in his third season removed from Tommy John surgery.

"We expect, if there's a need, that Danny will impact our team in the second half," Antonetti said. "In fact, our expectation is that he'll impact our pitching staff. That could be in the rotation, if there's a need, or it could be in the bullpen, if that's a route we decide to go."

• Indians top prospect Francisco Lindor has hit .441 (15-for-34) with five stolen bases, four extra-base hits, six RBIs and 10 walks through 10 games since being promoted to Double-A Akron. Multiple teams have inquired about the shortstop in trade discussions with the Indians.

"I think the industry recognizes how special a player Francisco is," Antonetti said. "I think that aligns with how we feel about him."

• Prior to Friday's game with the Rangers, Indians All-Star second baseman Kipnis was named one of 30 preliminary winners of the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association's Heart and Hustle Award. The award honors active players who demonstrate a passion for the game and best embody the values, spirit and tradition of the game.