Francisco Lindor suffers ankle injury

Francisco Lindor was already expected to miss the beginnning of the season, but after another injury his 2019 debut may be delayed just a bit longer.

2019 has not gotten off to a strong start for Francisco Lindor. Lindor suffered a calf injury training before coming to Arizona. Now it is being reported that Lindor has suffered another injury. Lindor sustained an ankle injury during a Minor League game Tuesday.

The injuries that Francisco Lindor have suffered may impact his ability to play in the field. The shortstop position requires lateral movement to play at the very worst, adequately. Lindor is an excellent defensive shortstop and any loss of range could negatively impact Cleveland’s infield defense. This could prove problematic if it is a longterm issue. In the interim Cleveland expects to deploy Eric Stamets as the Opening Day shortstop until Lindor returns. Brad Miller could also see time at shortstop if Cleveland decides to utilize Max Moroff at second base in the absence of Jason Kipnis.

While it was a good sign that Francisco Lindor was participating in Minor League games, there was still a bit of hesitation about his status for this season. A calf injury essentially sidetracked two years for former Indians outfielder Lonnie Chisenhall. The last thing the Indians need at this time is for Lindor to miss significant time. That Indians lineup looks a lot less imposing without Lindor in it.

As long as Francisco Lindor returns sometime this season and produces at level he is capable of there is nothing to worry about. Cleveland needs Lindor for October, not just Opening Day. If Lindor needs more time to ensure he is healthy that is more than fine. The Indians need their best players to be healthy in the postseason, not just at the beginning of the season.