Cleveland’s Kipnis moving to outfield

Jason Kipnis is going back to an old stomping ground.

Cleveland’s two-time all-star second baseman could get some playing time in centre field as the Indians look to add depth in their outfield after rookie Bradley Zimmer broke his left hand in Sunday’s game.

Kipnis, who has been on the disabled list since Aug. 23 with a hamstring injury that has bothered him for a couple months, is excited about the prospect of returning to the outfield. He played outfield in college and began his minor league career in the outfield for single-A Mahoning Valley in 2009.

“I’m pretty sure I’ve still got it in me,” Kipnis said. “I think I can still do it.”

Zimmer was hurt while diving into first base in the seventh inning of Sunday’s 3-2 win over the Baltimore Orioles, which extended Cleveland’s win streak to 18 games.

Manager Terry Francona said Zimmer visited hand specialist Dr. Thomas Graham in New York on Monday. Zimmer’s all-out hustle contributed to the injury, but Francona had no problem with Zimmer’s decision to dive headfirst into the bag.

The Indians are waiting for word on Zimmer’s diagnosis and treatment from Graham before proceeding.

In the meantime, Francona approached Kipnis about the chance to play in the outfield, and the 30-year-old was receptive.

“The main thing is just to get back and get healthy,” Kipnis said. “I can’t do anything or I can’t help anyone if I don’t do that first. But then, once we get back, I mean, the competitor in me just likes to be on the field. If it means I have to be in centre, then I have to be in centre. I just want to play.”