That's 10

Ten games ago, the Indians were in last place, 12 games under .500, at 55-67.

After tonight's 7-5 win over the Tigers, they're in third place at 65-67, and just 10 1/2 games out of first place. Granted, 10 1/2 games back with 30 to play is still pretty insurmountable, but stranger things have happened. But I'm not about to suggest the Indians are suddenly contenders. I'm just happy to enjoy this streak.

For anyone who missed it, Cliff Lee is now 19-2. Jensen Lewis, though he gave up two runs in the ninth tonight, is now a legitimate major league closer. Fausto Carmona appears to be on his way back, even though he struggled at times tonight. Grady Sizemore is the Indians' second 30-30 man, showing that rare combination of speed and power that we haven't seen since Joe Carter. Kelly Shoppach has proven to be a regular-quality major-league catcher, which is a good thing if we want to play Victor Martinez every day next year, whether at first, DH or whatever. Ben Francisco and Franklin Gutierrez are good enough to play every day, too. And if they need a rest, Shin-Soo Choo is a viable option. Jhonny Peralta is quietly having a good year. Asdrubal Cabrera is about as good as they come in the field, and has started to come around at the plate. Even Andy Marte finally got his batting average over .200 tonight.

In many ways, this is a lost season for the Indians, and I know they can't keep playing like this. I predict they go about .500 the rest of the way, maybe a little better. They might finish about 83-79. Hey, I'll take that, after all those injuries.