Lineup gets an overhaul
Who’s going to play the outfield?
The Indians might have the least-established outfield in a generally weak AL Central. It’s expected they will roll with some combination of Greg Allen, Leonys Martin, Matt Joyce, Tyler Naquin, Jordan Luplow and, when healthy, Bradley Zimmer. Those six averaged 65 games and 194 at-bats in the big leagues last season. Only Martin, whose season ended due to a near-fatal illness, had above a .675 OPS.
There’s not much help in the minors, where converted shortstop Oscar Mercado and Daniel Johnson might hold the most upside.
Do they have enough offense?
An offense that finished in the top six in all of baseball in runs, batting average, on-base percentage, slugging percentage and OPS looks unrecognizable. Francisco Lindor, who might not be available for opening day, and Jose Ramirez combined for more home runs than any other teammates in the majors in 2018.
Outside of that dynamic duo, the Indians’ current lineup is underwhelming. Gone are Michael Brantley, Edwin Encarnacion, Yan Gomes and Yonder Alonso, everyday starters from last year who combined for 88 home runs. The Indians are slated to replace them with Greg Allen, Carlos Santana, Roberto Perez and Jake Bauers, respectively, who combined for nearly 50 homers less (39) in 2018.
— Casey Moore