Cleveland Indians: Tyler Naquin survives team’s first injury scare of 2017

Aug 3, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians center fielder Tyler Naquin (30) rounds the bases after hitting a home run during the fifth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 3, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians center fielder Tyler Naquin (30) rounds the bases after hitting a home run during the fifth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

The Cleveland Indians received good news Monday morning when it was revealed Tyler Naquin did not suffer a major injury after fouling a ball off his foot.

Earlier today we published an article on how Austin Jackson is facing an uphill climb to make the Cleveland Indians’ final 25-man roster. For him to make it, he will need to be replacing a player who goes down with an injury.

Tyler Naquin gave fans the first injury scare of 2017 on Sunday when he fouled a ball off his foot and was removed from the game. But luckily, a scare was all it was, according to Jordan Bastian.

So for now, the only question in the outfield surrounds the status of Michael Brantley. His presence at batting practice is a great sign, but it doesn’t mean he is ready to play in live games.

The team continues to take the cautious approach, and that makes sense. After seeing Naquin fall to the ground after fouling a ball off his foot, it became clear just how easily injuries can pop up. So when it comes to Brantley, keeping him out until April isn’t a bad idea.

With Naquin in center field, Lonnie Chisenhall in right, Brandon Guyer in left, and Abraham Almonte as the utility outfielder, there may not be a spot open, given Brantley isn’t ruled out for a long period of time.

That means there may not be a spot for a player like Jackson, or even Bradley Zimmer, but it is good news as it means the Indians enter the 2017 season healthy. After a 2016 season filled with so many injuries, staying healthy remains one of the top priorities for the team all year.

Next: Analyzing Roberto Perez's value

More instances of players leaving games will occur throughout the year, but let’s all hope it ends how it did with Naquin. Just a bruise.

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