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Players to watch during August as the races heat up

Corey Kluber's performance down the stretch could be critical for the Indians' hopes for advancing deep into October. Paul Sancya/AP Photo

With the non-waiver deadline having passed us by, many contenders will have to rely on the roster they presently possess to capture playoff berths and advance through October. Who are the 10 players who could most impact the postseason races in the month to come?

Corey Kluber, Cleveland Indians: While the Indians are all but assured a postseason spot with 99 percent division-winning odds, according to FanGraphs, they might have the player most under the microscope down the stretch in the reigning American League Cy Young winner. Kluber had a "get shot" injected into his right knee prior to the All-Star break to treat an undisclosed issue. He has struggled mightily over the past two months as his release point and velocity have dropped, likely tied to his knee issue. He lost confidence in a signature breaking ball and his two-seamer and cutter have flattened out up in the zone.