CATCHER: It says something about Yan Gomes that the Tribe asked Francisco Mejia to play third base in the Arizona Fall League. Roberto Perez returns as the backup.
INFIELD: There's a gaping hole at first base with Carlos Santana a free agent. Jason Kipnis, Francisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez comprise one of the best infields in the league. Yandy Diaz and Giovanny Urshela are reserves, with Ramirez helping out with his versatility.
OUTFIELD: If healthy, Michael Brantley spearheads an all lefty-swinging group, joined by Bradley Zimmer and Lonnie Chisenhall. This makes right-handed Brandon Guyer a strong reserve. Abraham Almonte and Tyler Naquin both have starting experience.
DESIGNATED HITTER: After a slow start, Edwin Encarnacion got it in gear. Look for him to be hitting from the get-go.
BENCH: Depth isn't an issue with Diaz, Urshela, Almonte and Naquin..
ROTATION: A strength of the squad, Corey Kluber, Carlos Carrasco, Trevor Bauer, Danny Salazar Salazar and Mike Tomlin are all under contract and expected to be back. The wild-card is Mike Clevinger who deserves to start, with Salazar and Tomlin the most likely to be moved to the bullpen. Ryan Merritt looms as well.
BULLPEN: Cody Allen and Andrew Miller make a great one-two punch. However, Brian Shaw is gone and he was a vital cog. Look for Nick Goody to step into that role and be a nice cheap set up arm for deeper formats.
PROSPECTS TO WATCH: Mejia held his own in the AFL, opening the possibility Kipnis moves to the outfield and Ramirez to second. Though, most feel Mejia is still earmarked for receiver down the line. Bobby Bradley is interesting at first base. How the club replaces Santana could be a tell when they feel Bradley will be ready.
POSSIBLE ACQUISITIONS: As alluded to, first base is the biggest need. Everything else will be minor.
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