After a series of lower-body injuries derailed his start to the season, Cleveland Indians All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor is set to make his 2019 debut on Saturday.
The Indians activated Lindor off the 10-day injured list after being sidelined in February and then suffering another injury during a game in the minors in March.
The Injuries: Lindor, who missed just 11 games across his first three full MLB seasons, missed significant time since the start of February due to a calf and ankle injury.
- The 25-year-old suffered strained his calf during a workout and missed nearly two months of action.
- When Lindor returned to game action during the spring, he then suffered an ankle injury that cost him even more time.
The Return: Now Cleveland’s star infielder is back and it couldn’t come at a better time with fellow All-Star infielder Jose Ramirez struggling at the plate.
- Lindor’s return to the lineup adds needed protection in the lineup for Ramirez, who has a .145/.200/..232 slash line with a .432 OPS in 18 games this season.
- The All-Star shortstop should also add desperately needed run production for a team that ranks 26th in runs scored (63).
In a corresponding move, designated hitter Hanley Ramirez was designated for assignment by the Indians. The 35-year-old posted a .625 OPS with 17 strikeouts in 16 games this season.