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MLB: Injured Stars creating tough decisions for teams

By Matthew Lively

Jun 28, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks manager Chip Hale (3) takes starting pitcher Zack Greinke (21) out of the game after an injury during the third inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 28, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks manager Chip Hale (3) takes starting pitcher Zack Greinke (21) out of the game after an injury during the third inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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Michael Brantley

Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

The Injury and setback:

Michael Brantley has been on the DL since May 14 after a slow start to the season. He began the year on the DL after having surgery in November to repair a torn shoulder labrum. He’s been making rehab starts this past week for minor league affiliates, but it’s questionable as to whether or not the injury has improved.

The Indians were hoping he could make back to back starts at some point but sat out after a Friday game, and played again Sunday, going 0-3. Brantley then complained that there was more shoulder discomfort. He will undergo an MRI today.

How it impacts the team:

Brantley was the Indian’s best player last season. He hit .310, lead the majors with 45 doubles, and had more walks than strikeouts. This year, the Indians transitioned third baseman

Jose Ramirez

into a left fielder, and he has played extremely well.

The 23-year-old is hitting .294 with 41 RBI and 10 stolen bases. He’s also been very clutch, hitting .400 with two outs and runners in scoring position.

Possible Decisions:

Jose Ramirez has handled left field like a pro, meaning if Brantley is lost for more time they’ll be okay in the outfield. However, Ramirez’s native position, third base, has been an issue for the Indians. Juan Uribe is the starter there and is hitting .214 with an Offensive runs above average of -12.6.

The Indians have a couple of options. They could move Ramirez back to third base and look for an outfielder to replace him until Brantley can get back. Their backup Tyler Naquin is the front-runner if that happens. He’s hitting .314 with 10 home runs and 24 RBI in 172 at-bats.

If they elect to keep Ramirez in left, they will need to replace Uribe. Yunel Escobar would be a nice addition for the Indians. He signed a two-year deal with the Angels in the off-season and has put together a slash line of .314/.364/.410.

What they should do:

Save your prospects. Move Ramirez to third base, and make Tyler Naquin the everyday left-fielder until Brantley is healthy enough to return.

Next: The Red Sox closer

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