Cleveland Indians: Looking at the outfield injury timetables

The Cleveland Indians are expecting some injured players back soon, but several outfield spots are open for the taking over the next month.

Bradley Zimmer‘s Cleveland Indians debut earlier this week was exciting, but it happened because of some injuries to other outfielders.

Zimmer was called up after Abraham Almonte hit the disabled list with a bicep injury, where he joined Austin Jackson and Brandon Guyer who are also out injured.

The initial injuries to Guyer and Almonte didn’t seem major, but that changed once they were evaluated further.

According to the injury report on Indians.com, Almonte and Guyer are expected to be out until late-June at the earliest. Guyer may even be out longer with his wrist injury.

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Jackson is the one expected back soon, and may even be back this weekend against the Houston Astros. His return would likely mean Daniel Robertson is heading back to Columbus, as it would be far too soon to send Zimmer back down after he just came up.

If that is the move made, a great stretch of play from Zimmer would make it tough to send him back down once Almonte and Guyer return.

The team is currently carrying eight bullpen pitchers, so sending one down opens the way for one outfielder. But barring further injuries, Guyer’s return may be the one that sees a veteran player let go in favor of keeping Zimmer.

And as of right now, Jackson, Guyer and Almonte are all in the running to potentially lose a spot if Zimmer shines. None of the three have been spectacular this season, although Jackson may end up being the odd man out due to the others’ history with the club, combined with his age and health issues.

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Injuries are never fun, but seeing Zimmer get his shot helps bring a positive to the situation. The Indians need a jolt on offense, and the rookie may be able to provide just that. And if he can, it may mean a veteran must be let go to ensure the team sticks with the goal of competing for a World Series championship.