Diaz Fighting for Place on Roster and in Organization

During Spring Training the DTTWLN staff will profile and examine the coaches and players that make up and are vying to be part of the 2013 Cleveland Indians—A Team With A New Direction. Today, we examine one of the young players on the 40-man roster that is a part of the Indians’ minor league system.

By Mike Brandyberry

Spring Training is about many things. Getting in shape and ready for the long season is a priority for some solidified players and battling for a roster spot for some fringe players become the personal goals and pursuits of others.

For Indians shortstop Juan Diaz, battling to keep a place in the Tribe organization may be his goal.

The 24-year old shortstop appeared in five games with the Indians in May 2012, going 4-for-15 during his short big league stay. Diaz was filling in for an injured Asdrubal Cabrera. At the time, Indians Manager Manny Acta elected to promote Diaz for the short stint over Jason Donald because Diaz was better defensively. Donald, like Acta, is no longer with the organization.

Read More