Indians: 3 players who may need to spend some more time in Columbus
By Chad Porto
The Indians are still poised for success but some players need some seasoning.
The Cleveland Indians are sitting pretty, relatively speaking. They have some flexibility to acquire some guys (*cough cough Joey Gallo), while actively trying to sign some of their younger stars to extensions. They’ve shed a lot of salaries and haven’t really seen any issues. The same offensive woes the Tribe are dealing with in 2021, they dealt with in 2020 with Francisco Lindor and Carlos Santana on the roster. Clearly, money isn’t the answer to the batting woes of Cleveland.
The issue is at the positions they played, however. Shortstop and first base are not seeing a lot of production from it. Jake Bauers is hitting better in May than in April but he’s not tearing the ball off, nor is he walking at the same rate that Santana was. Santana always had a great eye for the plate and could walk his way on if need be.
Unfortunately, it’s not just the bats that have had their issues, as a key member of the pitching staff is also struggling. This isn’t what you want to hear when you have already had some issues with the rotation this season. It’s the truth, however. Zach Plesac and Aaron Civale are pitching fine, not dominating games but they’re fine.
Logan Allen has already been sent down, however, and another key rotation guy may be on his way. Considering the Tribe is leaning on Sam Hentges, who isn’t fairing well, it’s not a strong sign to admit another pitcher may need some more refinement.
It should be stressed, as some will misconstrue what this column is about, none of these players are guys to give up on. It’s merely saying that some minor league time, and working on their shortcomings will behoove them and the Indians in the long haul.