Friday 5: Prospects to Watch in Cleveland Indians Spring Training

Francisco Lindor, shortstop

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

An Indians’ prospect list is not complete without the addition of shortstop-in-waiting Francisco Lindor.

Lindor has been the talk of Tribe spring training for the last several seasons, and for good reason. He is the hands-down top prospect in the Indians farm system and his much anticipated debut is finally just right around the corner.

The 21-year-old shortstop is widely considered the best defender in the Minor Leagues. Reminiscent of Tribe favorite Omar Vizquel, Lindor has incredible range to both sides and yields a strong arm across the diamond.

While he does not have a lot of power, Lindor has also shown an ability to make contact and recognize pitches at the professional level. He hit a combined .276 at Akron (AA) and Columbus (AAA) last season with 11 homeruns, 62 RBIs and 28 stolen bases.

There is little doubt that Lindor is ready for the show, but Cleveland is wise to keep him off the Opening Day roster in order to avoid starting his arbitration clock. But rest assured that Cleveland is keeping a close eye on Lindor this spring.

Should Jose Ramirez falter at all during the 2015 season, Lindor will get the nod to man the middle infield.