Perhaps Jake Bauers is cut out for this outfield thing after all.
Getting the start in left field in the Cleveland Indians' season opener against the Minnesota Twins on Thursday, it didn't take long for Bauers to provide the first web gem of the season for his new team. Facing a 2-1 count in the bottom of the third inning, Twins catcher Jason Castro fouled a pitch off to shallow left field, only to have it caught by a sliding Bauers.
Bauers, who Cleveland acquired in a three-way trade with the Tampa Bay Rays and Seattle Mariners this past offseason, spent the majority of his rookie season with the Rays playing first base. The Indians, however, believe the 23-year-old possesses the athleticism to play outfield, while simultaneously providing the pop Cleveland's lineup needs at its corner positions.
So far, so good for Bauers -- at least as far as his defense in the outfield is concerned. Should the left-hander continue to show the ability to play in left field, it would provide some much-needed flexibility in Cleveland's lineup, with Carlos Santana at first base and Hanley Ramirez at designated hitter.
Next month, the Indians could add another potential power bat to their outfield, as veteran Carlos Gonzalez continues to work his way back into game shape after signing a minor league deal with the team last week.
For now, Cleveland will have to continue to count on Bauers -- both in the field and at the plate -- with the former already providing promising returns.
