Wednesday, March 5, 2014

How top Cleveland Indians prospects are faring in spring training

A look at how some of the Indians' top prospects are performing through one week of Cactus League games:

Francisco Lindor (SS, Baseball American No. 1):  The 20-year-old Lindor is a year away from competing for a job out of spring training. But he's 2-for-8 with a homer. The more major-league at-bats this spring, the better for Lindor, who's defensively ready to play at the highest level. Expect all of his at-bats to be scrutinized next spring.

Trevor Bauer (RHP, BA No. 3):  His early spring numbers are shaky. Bauer has allowed two runs, two walks and two hits in three innings. He's involved in the crowded competition for the fifth-starter spot, so his spring numbers are important.

Tyler Naquin (CF, BA No. 4): A season where Naquin can establish himself as a potential major-league regular has started with him going 2-for-6 with a homer. He has more walks (four) than strikeouts (two), an encouraging sign for a 22-year-old who appears headed to Double-A Akron.

Carlos Moncrief (OF, BA No. 14): His pitching days are over, but Moncrief's push for a spot in Cleveland is becoming serious. He's 2-for-9, but he could stick in major-league camp longer than other prospects because he's conquered every level of the minors besides Triple-A.

Joe Wendle (2B, BA No. 17): One of the most underrated players in the system, Wendle had a game-winning hit March 4 against the Chicago White Sox. His 11 at-bats are tied for the most among the 31 position players who have batted this spring. He has two hits.

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Joe Wendle could be hidden gem in Tribe's farm system

-- Guy Cipriano | @newsherladguy

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