Cleveland Indians: 3 prospects that could see regular playing time in 2021

Nolan Jones, INF

The No. 1 prospect for the Cleveland Indians, Nolan Jones has yet to make his major league debut, but could see a lot of playing time in the 2021 season, the question will just be where. So far, Jones has been strictly a third baseman in the minors with the exception of five games at shortstop, but the Indians are having him play both outfield and first during fall ball.

One theory is that Jones could take over first base from Carlos Santana or maybe even move into the outfield and provide a much needed spark for the Tribe. However, if there is a trade involving Jose Ramirez, Jones might even be able to slide into his natural position.

What could hold Jones back is his lack of experience. The loss of the 2020 minor league season might have really hurt his development as he’s only been able to play 49 games at Double-A for his highest level of experience. He was still able to produce over that short stint and do enough that might still put him into the majors in 2021.

Over those 49 games with Akron, Jones was able to put together a rather balanced stat line with 10 doubles, two triples and eight home runs, resulting in 22 RBI. His average was also, well, average at .253.

Jones might be given a brief run in Triple-A to start the 2021 season to give him that experience, but otherwise he should be able to make the jump to the major leagues in the very near future.