Cleveland Indians: Make Sure Yandy Diaz Is In The Lineup One Way Or Another

As the season progresses, the Cleveland Indians would be wise to start Yandy Diaz as often as possible.

Yes, the Cleveland Indians 2017 season is only one game old. With that said, one thing is clear when viewing the whole season in a big picture outlook: Yandy Diaz needs to be a regular in the lineup.

Right now, that is the case due to second baseman Jason Kipnis‘ injury. As a result, Cleveland moved third baseman Jose Ramirez to second and is giving Diaz an extended look at the hot corner.

Diaz also has some experience playing in the outfield, so when Kipnis does come back, Cleveland will have a decision to make. If you missed last night’s opening day game, Diaz had a solid defensive game and went 1/4 with a double and scored a run.

No, it was not a 3/4 game with a few RBI, but overall Diaz had a nice game. I know it was just one game and more specifically Diaz’s MLB debut, but the Tribe needs to put together the best lineup possible every day. For the most part they have and should continue doing that.

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Call it an overreaction that Diaz should be a regular starter if you would like. Regardless, I am looking at the big picture. Cleveland needs to make sure they have quality and quantity in terms of depth coming off of the bench.

Diaz can be the next big thing within Cleveland’s organization. To make that possible though, Diaz cannot be viewed strictly as a bench player or spot starter in a month or so, even though he is just a rookie.

The Indians will need versatility too and Diaz provides that, but he is not the only one. Ramirez also provides that leverage, along with outfielder Lonnie Chisenhall, who is not currently playing as he is on the disabled list.

The best athletes need to start every game, as long as they play at a high level. There is no reason to believe that Diaz won’t turn into an inconsistent player. He will likely hit the rookie wall in 2017, but over the course of 2017 and beyond, Diaz has a higher ceiling than that of Chisenhall for example, among others.