Friday 5: Prospects to Watch in Cleveland Indians Spring Training

Tyler Naquin, outfield

Jun 18, 2013; San Jose, CA, USA; Carolina League center fielder Tyler Naquin (6) during the home run derby of the California League vs Carolina League All Star Game at San Jose Municipal Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Tyler Naquin comes in as the Tribe’s No. 3-rated prospect behind only Lindor and Clint Frazier, who is still years away from debuting in Cleveland. Like Lindor, Naquin might just be one injury away from getting his first look with the Tribe in 2015.

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Taken in the first round of the 2012 draft, Naquin is the perfect leadoff hitter. He has good speed and has demonstrated an ability to get on base at a high clip. He posted a slash line of .313 / .371 / .424 last season at Akron (AA) and was on pace to eclipse his career high in stolen bases before injuring his hand toward the end of June.

Now fully recovered and ready to go, Naquin is likely headed back to Akron to start the season, but he will get a long look in Columbus should an outfield position open in the near future. With Tyler Holt, Carlos Moncrief and James Ramsey all standing in the way of his progression, Naquin may still be a year away from Cleveland.

But should they find themselves in need of a defensive centerfielder and possible leadoff hitter come September, Naquin could very well get his first look in Cleveland.

Next: Carlos Moncrief