Cleveland Indians Spring Training: Top Story Lines

Jun 18, 2013; San Jose, CA, USA; Carolina Mudcats shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) during the first inning of the California League vs Carolina League All Star Game at San Jose Municipal Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

#6. Can Francisco Lindor win the starting job at shortstop?

Logic says no. With Asdrubal Cabrera returning and increased emphasis on controlling the service time of top prospects, it seems unlikely that Francisco Lindor has any chance of winning the starting job at short stop. However, if Lindor shines and Cabrera underwhelms it will make the decision a lot more difficult. Ultimately though, a lot of decisions have to come down to money. With Cabrera set to make $10-million this season and with little to no trade value at the moment, the Indians can’t bench him. He needs to play in order to get some type of return on that $10-million and rebuild his trade value. That said, it’s situation worth keeping an eye on.