Chisenhall and Ramirez now Clippers in the outfield

When Lonnie Chisenhall and Jose Ramirez were relegated to the AAA Columbus Clippers, the hope for the Cleveland Indians was that Giovanny Urshela and Francisco Lindor would play well enough to solidify themselves as the starters at third base and shortstop for the foreseeable future.

Despite issues for Francisco Lindor at the plate¹ , the two prospects have been as good as advertised defensively and have put their stamp on the team’s future plans.

Thus, Chisenhall and Ramirez went from MLB starters to AAA prospects that were blocked at their positions in a matter of weeks despite being only 26 and 22 years old, respectively.

To their credit, both Chisenhall (.296/.355/.459 in Columbus) and Ramirez (.375/.444/.583) have been hitting the ball extremely well since being demoted. Both players are young enough that they could theoretically regain their confidence against lesser pitching before becoming useful players again at the MLB level.

In the meantime, both players are attempting to rebuild their value to the Indians organization by adding versatility to their defensive positions in order to become potential utility players.

Lonnie Chisenhall was the first to shift into taking turns in the outfield as he started on Wednesday in right field.

https://twitter.com/IndiansAccounts/status/618901283580219392

Chisenhall’s defensive adjustment paid immediate dividends to the Columbus Clippers, as he recorded his first outfield assist on a play at the plate to preserve the lead in the eighth inning of a game that the Clippers went on to win.

Lonnie Chisenhall cuts down the tying run at home from right field! To the 9th, Clippers lead 4-3! #ClipShow

— Columbus Clippers (@CLBClippers) July 9, 2015

Jose Ramirez will be taking some turns around the field in coming games as well, including a potential move to the outfield. He is of similar size, speed, and skill of San Diego’s Alexi Amarista — nicknamed “The Little Ninja” — so the transition makes sense.

Francona said plan is to start moving Jose Ramirez around the field too. Envisions an Alexi Amarista-type player. Could see some time in CF.

— August Fagerstrom (@AugustFG_) July 9, 2015

Whether or not these players are able to regain their footing at the MLB level, it is always promising to hear that players are willing to put the time and work in to make the most out of their abilities.

1. Although the last two games of the series against the Houston Astros demonstrated some of his potential with a double and a home run, respectively [↩]