So David Huff turns in his third consecutive outstanding start Tuesday vs. the Red Sox, and after the game gets informed that he is being optioned back to Columbus. Seems like an odd move, with Huff pitching great and Carlos Carrasco pitching pitifully. So what's up with that? Well, it may not be exactly what it seems.

In three starts after being recalled from Columbus Huff had a 0.51 ERA. Carrasco, meanwhile, is 0-5 with a 9.13 ERA in his last five starts. So how does Carrasco get to stay and Huff has to leave?

Well, actually Carrasco is going to leave after his start Wednesday night in Fenway Park. He is dropping the appeal of the six-game suspension he received for throwing a pitch at the head of Kansas City's Billy Butler last Friday.

Carrasco, however, has to pitch tonight. The Indians have no other starter with enough rest to make that start. So Carrasco will make it, then begin his six game suspension, which will run through the remainder of this road trip, and the first two games of the next homestand. With the team having an off day Monday, they won't need a fifth starter again until a week from Friday.

Players optioned to the minor leagues cannot be recalled for 10 days. Huff's 10 days will be up on the day the Indians will next need a fifth starter. So don't be surprised if he starts Sunday in Columbus, then is recalled by the Indians to start Friday, Aug. 12 vs. Minnesota, with Carrasco being optioned back to Columbus once he is done serving his suspension.