Cleveland Indians Trade Deadline Preview

The Cleveland Indians outfield has been talked about a great deal since Byrd was served his potentially career-ending suspension for PED use.

The group now includes Jose Ramirez, Tyler Naquin, Lonnie Chisenhall and Rajai Davis, with Michael Martinez also being an option on some days.

Davis and Naquin seem to have secure spots in the lineup, but the questions arise with whether Ramirez and Chisenhall can hold down their spots for the rest of the season.

As of right now, it appears they will be fine. The 23-year old Ramirez is arguably the team’s best hitter, while Chisenhall has been great in his move from third base to outfield.

Both players have had their respective struggles, but they have been able to step in for the injured Brantley and be strong assets to the team.

Those calling for a trade may also be forgetting about the return of Abraham Almonte, who is currently out serving an 80-game suspension for PED use.

His return will give the Indians five healthy outfielders, meaning the addition of another player may disrupt the formula that has worked all year.

This is not to say the offense may not level off at some point, but dismantling a successful system just doesn’t make sense. A system that works is better than overspending to get one player, especially when the player may only be a two-month rental.

The outfield is set, leaving two spots on the team where improvement can be seen.

Next: Third base