The utility role is not a flashy one, but it is one that is certainly important. The Cleveland Indians have a couple of options to consider when putting together their roster for the all important utility player.
Mike Freeman
The literal description of not flashy, Mike Freeman is someone who can fill in all over the field. Cleveland deployed Freeman at second, shortstop, third base, and left field last season. Freeman had a career year in 2019 at the plate with a .277/.362/.390/.752, driving in 22 runs with 8 doubles and 4 home runs. The perfect way to utilize Mike Freeman is no more than twice a week to give a regular starter rest.
Christian Arroyo
This is sort of a low-risk high-reward option. Christian Arroyo was a highly regarded prospect who has had a rough go of it at the MLB level. A mix of injures and inconsistent performances at the plate led to to Cleveland acquiring him from Tampa Bay. Arroyo has experience at second base, third base, and shortstop. The Indians could give the soon to be 25-year old infielder a chance to make an impact at the Major League level. The fact that Arroyo is out of options may lead to the team giving him a shot to start the year before exploring other possible solutions.
Yu Chang
Probably the least likely option, Yu Chang has experience at third base and shortstop. The problem is his bat is less than inspiring. Chang barely hits over .250 when playing at the AAA or MLB level. It seems like an injury to one of the other options would be the only way Chang makes the Opening Day roster.
Nobody with first base experience
The problem the Indians face here is that none of the options have experience at first base. Carlos Santana prefers to play in the field and not DH, but he does need the occasional day off in the field. Jake Bauers could have been an option to make the team due to his ability to play first base and the outfield, but his bat has been non-existent in Arizona.
This seems like it could pave the way for Bobby Bradley to make the team, although there is an obstacle. Defensively he is not great and it seems like Cleveland is more likely to deploy one of Franmil Reyes or Domingo Santana as the designated hitter. That is unless the team punts outfield defense and goes with an offense only approach with Reyes and Santana in the field. This is not a sound strategy and it is doubtful it is under serious consideration.
