Cleveland Indians: Spring training outlook could change quickly if moves are made

Free agency hasn’t played out as some expected so far for the Cleveland Indians and the rest of MLB. That will change soon enough and if Cleveland is involved so could their 2018 outlook.

Plenty of offseason moves need to be made soon. Some will impact to some degree the Cleveland Indians‘ 2018 season, while others won’t.

In just a matter of days, Cleveland’s spring training will be underway. On February 15, pitchers and catchers begin their workouts while the rest of the team begins on February 19.

Looking at how the A.L. Central has played out as of now, the Tribe has certainly lost their fair share of players in free agency but is still the best in the division. As far as the rest of the American League is concerned, however, that is up for debate.

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There’s no reason why the Indians won’t win their division, especially by double-digit games. I am sure we can all agree there will be specific players that will have to step up their game in order to replace those that left to do so but there is a lot to like heading into the season.

That said, Cleveland’s outlook could be even more intriguing and exciting if a couple of key things are figured out sooner rather than later.

The first item of business that comes to mind is what exactly is the outfield plan? Bradley Zimmer is going to start in center and an under the radar player that I believe will have an impressive spring is Greg Allen.

By haivng a great spring training, he will show that he deserves strong consideration to start. The problem, however, is that Allen may be forced into a platoon role in either corner outfield spot, especially with Michael Brantley‘s option being picked up as Cleveland’s starting left fielder.

In right, Lonnie Chisenhall is going to start. While his versatility is nice, he doesn’t move the needle enough in making the Indians a championship contender any more than they have been in the past.

A move or two would be nice to improve Cleveland’s outfield, which is one of their few weaknesses. The unfortunate part is that a move may not even happen. Overall, the Indians’ outfield is average at best and would benefit from a move.

Given how the free agent market has played out, maybe just maybe veteran OF J.D. Martinez‘s value drops enough for Cleveland to get into the hunt. I doubt it happens and even if it does, the Indians may have been better off making a deal with Jay Bruce instead.