Cleveland Indians complete Opening Day infield with Diaz, Martinez

The Cleveland Indians have selected both Yandy Diaz and Michael Martinez to be on the Opening Day roster as the season is just days away.

Cleveland Indians fans may have been worried when Jason Kipnis‘ injury was announced, but there will be some excitement about the replacement plan.

With Jose Ramirez sliding over to play second base while Kipnis recovers, Yandy Diaz has been named to the roster to play third, with Michael Martinez also making it as a utility infielder.

Some may stress about Martinez making it, but the Indians aren’t going to have players like Erik Gonzalez or Giovanny Urshela make the team, only to ride the bench. Those players need to play everyday, at least at this point in the season. One of them could take that utility role later in the year, once the postseason nears.

But the excitement from this announcement is for fans who have been wanting Diaz to be in Cleveland all along. His line of .325/.399/.461 in Columbus last season has fans pumped for his arrival, even if he may be a liability on defense.

Regardless, he will have the chance to prove himself and may make it difficult for the Indians to decide what to do with him once Kipnis returns.

But for now, Diaz slots in as the starting third baseman and actually adds some pop to an already strong lineup. He could potentially move to the outfield if there are any lingering injuries, but time will tell what happens there.

Next: Breaking down the Opening Day bullpen

The only remaining question for Opening Day is whether Michael Brantley will be ready, but his constant presence in the lineup the past few days bodes well for his chances.