Cleveland Indians: Way-too-early reactions to minor league performances

Akron Rubberducks

The Akron Rubberducks have had a strong start to the season and it’s spelled out success nearly across the board for the team. There really isn’t one standout player or one that is struggling mightily either. It’s a lot of solid players combining to wins games day-in and day-out. With that being said, we can still highlight that team effort.

On the mound, arguably the best start came from the left-handed Juan Hillman, a second round pick by the Cleveland Indians in 2015, who tossed four scoreless innings for Akron. He allowed just two hits, but did hit two batters and walked another. Those types of outings aren’t uncommon at this level, but control will still be something he will need to work on to advance up to Columbus.

As for at the plate, it’s been the Oscar Gonzalez show on more nights than one. A 6-foot-4, 23-year old outfielder, Gonzalez is slashing .333/.375/.933 in the early going thanks to three home runs through the first five games. The outburst of power has translated to a team-high seven RBI, having knocked in over 20% of Akron’s runs in the first series of the season. The downside for Gonzalez is five strikeouts, but if his stats at the plate continue he could be a fast mover through the minors for an organization that is still trying to gain footing in the outfield.