Cleveland Indians: 3 main storylines at the outset of the season

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Nov 2, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians second baseman Jason Kipnis (22) and designated hitter Carlos Santana (41) celebrate after both scoring on a wild pitch by Chicago Cubs pitcher Jon Lester (34) in the 5th inning in game seven of the 2016 World Series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

Indians fans had been hearing about Jason Kipnis‘ shoulder throughout March, but it never seemed to be a major problem. Then he was shutdown for two weeks. Then this news came out.

Chisenhall and Kipnis to 10-day DL. Both eligible on April 9. To clear two 40 spots: Anderson to 60-day and Cooney released.
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) April 2, 2017

Kipnis is starting the season on the DL, and will be joined by Lonnie Chisenhall, who injured himself running into a wall in a spring training game.

Neither injury seems to be major, yet it is difficult to just assume that both will be back right away after ten days. We have seen small timetables morph into unknown periods of time, as was the case with Michael Brantley a season ago.

Chisenhall at least seems to be headed back sooner than Kipnis, but it is just too early to know. The good news is that this team has incredible depth.

Abraham Almonte earned a roster spot thanks to Chisenhall’s absence, while Yandy Diaz was given a job once Kipnis was sent to the DL.

It is nice to see Almonte and Diaz receive these opportunities, but fans will closely be following the progression of both Kipnis and Chisenhall, as they are key parts of this team.

Yet we saw players like Jose Ramirez and Roberto Perez step up in the absence of some established starters, so perhaps someone like Diaz can come in and make a spot for himself, and actually improve the team. That will be another focus for fans as the season begins.

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