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

2. Cesar Hernandez

Cesar Hernandez was the Cleveland Indians “big” free-agent splash, as the Tribe signed the Phillies’ free-agent to a one-year pact worth around $6.2 million.

The veteran should be an upgrade over Jason Kipnis, as the second baseman carried a 1.6 WAR a season, compared to Kipnis’ mark of 0.7.

Kipnis hit three more home runs than Hernandez (17 to 14) last season, but, Herndanez essentially carries the same type of power potential and is more likely to hit for a better average as a lifetime .277 hitter. Plus, he hits from both sides of the plate, which gives Francona versatility in his lineup.

The Indians have some exciting players and if they’re all clicking, Tito’s lineup could make for a lot of tough outs. Hernandez could bat second, considering his past experience as a lead-off hitter.

If Tito decides to go with Oscar Mercado at No. 2, perhaps Hernandez can hit ninth, giving Cleveland a table-setter at the bottom of the lineup.