Cleveland Indians: Kluber to get second straight Opening Day start

Corey Kluber will make second straight Opening Day start for the Cleveland Indians.

After struggling a bit last season following his Cy Young campaign in 2014, many still feel that Corey Kluber is the version from that season and last year was simply a hiccup. Terry Francona falls in that group as he’s named Kluber the Opening Day starter for the second year in a row. Even with Carlos Carrasco up and coming fast, this rotation is still anchored by Kluber.

The idea of Carlos Santana batting leadoff has been tossed around by Francona, but after looking towards the analytical department to get him the numbers it’s not a sure thing. While Francona expected the numbers to lean that way, the loss of power from him lower in the lineup didn’t bode well. So could he still leadoff? Not out of the question, but the odds may not be in his favor.

Francisco Lindor took the league by storm last season, and very well could have been the league’s AL Rookie of the Year. But he’s not content with that, and those around them see the greatness he’s capable of. But even then, fellow players say fans need to temper their excitement. “He’s a fantastic defender who had a great rookie season, but he’s not the second coming of Jesus,” second baseman Jason Kipnis said. “Let’s not get carried away.”

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Kluber to start Opening Day for Tribe’ – Let’s Go Tribe

‘An analytical surprise for Santana in the leadoff spot’ – Cleveland.com

‘It’s OK to get carried away with Lindor’ – ESPN

’10 glorious things that mean you’re watching Spring Training’ – Cut4

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