Smoke signals

• The Indians unveiled a wave of renovation and enhancement plans for Progressive Field on Thursday. The ballclub is planning on dramatically altering the space behind right and center field, creating better sightlines and more social areas. Francona was impressed with the renderings.

"I love what they're trying to do," Francona said. "I know they've been mulling things over for a while. I think they're trying to get our ballpark more in line with maybe the size of our city and our fan base, and also try to attract maybe younger families and try to make it be a destination. From what I've seen, it looks pretty cool."

• Right-hander Shaun Marcum, whose comeback from thoracic outlet syndrome has slowed his schedule all season, was activated from the disabled list by Triple-A Columbus on Thursday. The 32-year-old Marcum (a veteran of eight seasons in the Majors) will work as a reliever for the time being with Columbus.

• Center fielder Michael Bourn (on the 15-day disabled list with a left hamstring injury) was scheduled to resume a Minor League rehab assignment with Double-A Akron on Thursday. Bourn was slated to play seven innings after logging five in his first rehab game with Akron on Tuesday.