Cleveland Indians: 5 debuts we’re excited to see this season

1. Nolan Jones

Nolan Jones,the Tribe’s No. 1 prospect, is expected to open up the season on the Tribe’s Taxi Squad, which will play games in either Akron or Lake County.

Even prior to COVID, there was some speculation about Jones making the leap at some point to help the Indians in 2020. He should definitely be in Cleveland by 2021, but it wouldn’t have surprised some to see him on corner of Carnegie and Ontario late this season.

Well, late this season is now, and while the Tribe doesn’t need a third baseman right now, with Jose Ramirez manning the position, all bets are off when it comes to finding help in the shortened 60-game campaign.

Designated hitter remains a particularly interesting spot in the lineup to watch, because Franmil Reyes is expected to play some corner outfield. The Indians have guys who will get as hot at DH, such as Domingo Santana and Jake Bauers, but if they fail, and there isn’t a whole lot of time to preach patience, might Jones be an option?

Surely, Jones’s presence on the taxi squad, along with shortstop Tyler Freeman, is to ensure a couple of the Tribe’s top prospects get some work in, but Jones could really be someone who helps, particularly in a pinch.