Cleveland Indians Spring Training Heating Up

With temperatures around 40 degrees today in Cleveland, there was a hint of spring in the air. As the snow was melting at Progressive Field, things were warming up for the Indians at Goodyear Park in Arizona.

The Tribe’s 19-year-old shortstop prospect, Carson Tucker, was putting in work at the cages. This is Tucker’s first spring training as he was the 2020 1^st round pick. He’s an exciting prospect to watch as he makes his pro-debut at some point this season.

Bryan Rocchio was also participating in batting practice today. Rocchio is another shortstop prospect. He’s a switch hitter and is expected to see some play during spring training games. Rocchio is set to be part of the depth for the team in the minors.

Outfielder Franmil Reyes reached Arizona battling an ankle injury that occurred a few weeks ago. The injury was sustained while Reyes was working out prior to spring training. He’s working it out at batting practice however, for right now, live at-bats with a pitcher put too much pressure on his ankle. Reyes will be relied on this season as the Indians need strength in the outfield. Francona did say that he expects to have in the outfield not at DH.

“I don’t want to get him to get into a position that’s unfair to him, running him back and forth,” Francona said. “My guess is we’ll start him out in the outfield, in right field”

Today the Skipper laid out his plans for the season and gave his yearly opening words for the players. It’s a particularly important meeting, but as we go through spring training, every morning we’ll highlight certain things as we get toward opening day, trying to be the team we want to be,” Francona said. He’s been very visible buzzing around Goodyear on his golf cart and the players are glad to have him back at the helm.

There’s still a lot to sort out before Opening Day, one of which who will earn the first base spot that Carlos Santana left behind. For now, it appears Josh Naylor will be the starter. Jake Bauers was taking reps at first base during team workouts and then there’s Bobby Bradley who could also make a run at the open spot.

The Indians will face off against the Cincinnati Reds in six days. The energy is good at Goodyear as the second day of full workouts was complete.

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