Cleveland Indians: When Should Giovanny Urshela Play?

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Mar 13, 2016; Surprise, AZ, USA; Cleveland Indians third baseman Giovanny Urshela (39) dodges a pitch during the second inning against the Kansas City Royals at Surprise Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

Uribe Will Have To Play Himself Out Of A Job First

Nick Dudkovich

Urshela’s promotion is hard to predict, mainly because he has struggled mightily coming out of the gate at Class AAA-Columbus. Entering Sunday, Urshela was batting .042. He has one hit in 24 at-bats. One hit!

The Cleveland Indians’ current third baseman, Juan Uribe, struggled to start the season, as well. But at least he has started to show signs of life, with three hits in the Tribe’s loss to the New York Mets Friday, and another base knock in Saturday’s win. Entering Sunday, Uribe raised his average to .200. Yes, he is not beating the cover off the ball, but the veteran may just need some time.

The early problem with Uribe is his defense. Through eight games, he has two errors. He made nine last season. Urshela’s defense has been perfect in the minor leagues, but Cleveland cannot promote a kid who is struggling as much as he is at the dish.

Uribe, 37, is a veteran who can at least offer more potential at the plate. Unless he really goes into the tank—and I do not think he will–I would not look for Urshela to be promoted anytime soon.

Plus, the Cleveland Indians are paying Uribe $4 million. For that kind of money, you can bet the front office is going to at least give him the chance to fail. At the end of the day, I do not see Urshela being promoted any time soon.

Next: Multiple Scenarios Could Lead Urshela Back To The Majors

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