Cleveland Indians: Prepare to see Carlos Santana in the outfield in 2017

The Cleveland Indians may not want Carlos Santana’s bat out of the lineup often in 2017, meaning he could be seen in the outfield once again.

Cleveland Indians fans are aware of the revolutionary way in which Terry Francona manages his team. From removing bullpen roles to shifting players around the field, he does it all to ensure his team is given the best chance to win.

Putting Carlos Santana in the outfield was one of his surprises, especially when it happened on the road during the World Series. Santana did not make an error, and showed he could hold his own in the outfield.

He may have to do so again in 2017, as he is this team’s leadoff hitter, and Francona may not want to have Santana’s bat out of the lineup in interleague play.

Santana played some outfield on Thursday, and could potentially do so again next week when the Indians take on the Arizona Diamondbacks, according to an article by Jordan Bastian on Indians.com.

Bastian explains how Francona hasn’t committed to playing Santana in the outfield next week, but it always remains a possibility. Yet while fans may not see Santana in the outfield this early in the season, it could happen if the team makes it back to the World Series.

Taking the leadoff hitter out of the starting lineup for three or four games is just not an option. Francona found a way to get Santana in the game last year, and will not hesitate to do so again in 2017 if the team makes it back.

Next: Previewing the starting rotation

This is a problem that Francona doesn’t have to worry about for months, but getting Santana some action in the outfield during the regular season will help prepare him to be back out there in October.