INDIANS 2017 team preview and projections

[mjp28]

Cleveland Indians season preview 2017

With Opening Day around the corner, the American League Champion Cleveland Indians are ready to make another playoff push in 2017.

Here is a position-by-position breakdown of the squad by cleveland.com reporters Paul Hoynes and Zack Meisel, including which players are just a call away at the club's AAA team in Columbus, and what the organization's depth looks like at each spot.

You'll also find videos highlighting the team's strengths around the diamond as well as predictions for the MLB season and schedule information.

http://www.cleveland.com/tribe/index.ssf/2017/03/cleveland_indians_season_previ_3.html

The Infield

There are questions, but there are also constants. Jason Kipnis opens the season on the disabled list, and Yandy Diaz gets a shot at third base. But Gold Glove shortstop Francisco Lindor returns, and the power-hitting platoon of Edwin Encarnacion and Carlos Santana anchor first base.

The Outfield

With Lonnie Chisenhall opening the season on the disabled list, and Michael Brantley's status still unclear, the Tribe's outfield is its biggest question mark heading into Opening Day. Paul Hoynes says there will be plenty of help available, as Brandon Guyer and Abraham Almonte platoon in right and Tyler Naquin shares center field with Austin Jackson. And Bradley Zimmer is just a phone call away in Columbus.

......see link for more.......

[mjp28]

Kipnis and Chisenhall two key opening day injuries, the Tribe will have to make up the slack with subs and pitching...but pitching should be a strong suit.

[Browns149]

I think Jose Ramirez should fill in adequately at 2nd base. From what it looks like Brantley will be in the lineup tomorrow in Texas.

Adding Brantley and Edwin to the 3-4 spots in the lineup should make this team even better then last year