CLEVELAND -- Seeing the size of Carlos Carrasco's smile, it's hard to tell he's a little more than a month removed from being diagnosed with leukemia.
Addressing reporters in the interview room of Progressive Field, Carrasco discussed his diagnosis, the support he's received and his road to recovery. All the while, the Cleveland Indians starting pitcher kept a near-permanent smile on his face, providing a first-hand glimpse of the positive approach he's taken.
"They've been great. My wife, my kids, my family, teammates, [Indians manager Terry Francona], [front] office, staff, fans, they've been great," Carrasco said of the reaction he's received. "They always support me in any way. On the field, off the field. They've been great."
Carrasco said he first began feeling lethargic during Spring Training earlier this year, although it wasn't until early-June that blood tests revealed his diagnosis. At the time, the Indians said that Carrasco -- whose last start came on May 30 -- hoped to return at some point during the 2019 season, although the right-hander admitted Thursday he's not yet sure if that will happen.
"I don't know. I'm just here. I'm just going to take it day by day," he said. "I don't have the answer. I'm glad to be here around my teammates."
In addition to doing well spiritually, the 32-year-old seems to also be taking strides physically. Earlier this week, he was cleared for strength and conditioning, as well as throwing activity.
Since then, Carrasco has been throwing regular bullpen sessions -- including one prior to Thursday's media availability. And to this point, the 2017 American League wins leader's performance has remained up to par with the standard he's set for himself as a cornerstone of Cleveland' rotation.
"I've been throwing the ball normal," he said. "Every time when I come to the stadium, it feels like home."
In order to stay on track with his throwing regimen amid the madness of All-Star week in Cleveland, Carrasco made brief detours to Classic Park in Lake County. He was, however, around for two of the most memorable moments to occur at Progressive Field this week.
Just before Cleveland first baseman Carlos Santana took the field for the Home Run Derby on Monday, Carrasco was shown standing among the fans, wearing a customized jersey to support his four Indians teammates playing in the All-Star Game. And while the ovation Carrasco received was sizable, it paled in comparison to the one he received a day later.
As the All-Star Game held its annual "Stand Up to Cancer" ceremony, fans filling Progressive Field -- as well as reporters, umpires and players -- were shown holding signs to honor those battling cancer. The ceremony ended with the four Indians playing in the exhibition and manager Terry Francona standing next to a visibly emotional Carrasco, who held a sign that simply read "I stand."
"I was excited. I almost cried there," Carrasco said. "It felt nice."
You can watch Carrasco's entire press conference in the player below:
