Cleveland Indians: A five point offseason checklist for the Tribe

Step #5: Nolan Jones

One of the biggest question marks this offseason for the Cleveland Indians will be Nolan Jones. Is he ready for the big leagues? Does he have a spot to play in the lineup? Can he play first base or the outfield?

Hopefully, we should have answer to the last question sooner rather than later. Jones will be playing both first base and in the outfield during fall ball, which could open a door to the answer of the second question.

If Jones can play first or the outfield comfortably, then the Indians should easily be able to find a spot for him in the 2021 lineup. By then, the team will have made a decision of Carlos Santana’s option and should also have a better grasp for what the outfield picture will look like. Jones could easily slide into the mix for either position if he can prove he’s ready in the field.

As for the first question, fall ball will hopefully provide an answer to that as well. Jones only has 49 games of experience at Double-A that came in 2019 and no time at Triple-A, so making a jump to the majors could be a big one for the Indians’ No. 1 prospect. How he performs in fall ball and spring training will go a long way in deciding where he starts the 2021 season, but regardless, there’s a high chance he ends the season in Cleveland.