Spokane Indians pregame: Josh Javier on the hill, Indians back to work after all-star break

The Spokane Indians (6-7) host the Tri-City Dust Devils (7-6) in the first of a three-game Northwest League series at Avista Stadium on Thursday at 6:30 p.m.

Tri-City has won four games in a row and holds a one game lead in the North Division second-half standings.

The Indians send lefty Josh Javier (0-0, 3.67) against Jason Blanchard (1-2, 6.00) for the Dust Devils. Blanchard was the starter earlier this season with four T-C pitchers combined to throw a no-hitter against Everett.

Javier looks to bounce back after a pair of rough starts. He allowed five earned runs in four innings against Everett on July 22 and gave up three earned in two innings on July 29 against Eugene.

Lineup: 1) Strahm-CF; 2) Garcia-C; 3) Crim-1B; 4) Asuncion-RF; 5) Ventura-DH; 6) Ricumstrict-LF; 7) Hoover-2B; 8) McReynolds-3B; 9) Inoa-SS.

Weather: First pitch – Cloudy/smoky, 97. Final out – cloudy, 80.

Player to watch: Blaine Crim. He was named the NWL’s “Top Star” in Tuesday’s all-star game and finished 3 for 4 with two RBIs. His .341 average this season ranks second in the league.

Last game: Los Angeles Angels fifth-ranked prospect Jeremiah Jackson hit a grand slam in a five-run third inning and the Pioneer League All-Stars beat the Northwest League All-Stars 11-7 at Memorial Stadium on Tuesday.

Five Spokane Indians were named to the NWL team. Designated hitter Blaine Crim, right fielder Kellen Strahm and catcher David Garcia started, while pitchers Ricky Vanasco and Daniel Robert were reserves.

Crim paced the NWL squad, going 3 for 4 with two RBIs. Vanasco pitched a scoreless inning with two strikeouts. Strahm (0 for 2) and Garcia (1 for 2) both scored runs while Robert didn’t make an appearance.