Francona Not Ready To Call On Lindor

Terry Francona addressed the press at MLB’s Winter Meetings on Wednesday.  Most intriguing were his remarks concerning his feelings towards super-propect Fransisco Lindor. Up to this point Lindor has been right on schedule in his progression through the Indians farm system and with the departure of Asdrubal Cabrera was expected by many to take over at shortstop for the Indians in 2015. However, after Cabrera was traded to the Washington Nationals last season it was Jose Ramirez who stepped in as the Indians shortstop. Ramirez played admirably during the 2014 stretch run and soon gained the trust of his skipper.

Francona disclosed on Wednesday that the Indians will more than likely break spring training without their number one prospect on the roster. A tremendous amount of hype has followed Lindor through his young career and many thought this was his time. It was a bit perplexing when he was not invited to join the Indians big league club during September call ups last summer. Lindor batted .276 in AA Akron and AAA Columbus last season with 11 HRs and 68 RBI. Lindor is more known for his ability to dazzle defensively than his ability to hit at this point in his career.

Francona seems to be in no hurry to involve Lindor, though. He stated that he was comfortable with Ramirez and utility player Mike Aviles at shortstop for the time being. Regarding Lindor, Francona went on to say “He needs to ‑‑ his development needs to be just that….When he’s ready, his play will show us that….By a guy hitting .400 in spring training, that doesn’t show you they’re ready to handle the rigors of a full season.  It can certainly excite you about seeing some of their tools, but that’s not a genuine show of what they can do.” With Francona broaching the concept of Lindor back in the minors before they have even started spring training it is apparent that Ramirez is his guy for the near future. Ramirez batted .262 with 17 RBI and 10 stolen bases in 68 games for the Tribe last year. He showed immense range deep into the hole both to his right and left. His defense proved to be better than advertised and he showed that that he can handle every day duties at the position. Ramirez looked comfortable at the plate and began to drive the ball to both fields late in the season. It is justifiable that Francona feels good about Ramirez going into 2015.

By: Brad Ward

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