Flashing a golden glove and an equally rich charisma, switch-hitting shortstop prospect Francisco Lindor reminds many of Omar Vizquel. After splitting time in 2014 between the Akron RubberDucks and Columbus Clippers, the Puerto Rican-born Lindor was invited to his second big league camp. He's the Tribe's top-ranked prospect — No. 4 among all big league teams.
Double Plays: Growing up, Lindor paid close attention to Vizquel and fellow All-Star second baseman Roberto Alomar. And now that he's so close to the show, Lindor is looking to the players who've been there before. "I'm trying to learn to have fun around the vets — making myself comfortable around them — so when I hopefully make my debut, I'm comfortable," he says.
Step Up: After being selected eighth overall in the 2011 June draft, Lindor played in the 2012 Futures Game, coming off the bench to record a pinch hit at just 18 years old. That brief experience helped his confidence. "I'm not nervous. It's the same game," he says. "I've done it, and now it's my third year. I feel pretty confident in my ability to play this game on any level."
Plate Patience: Lindor has only appeared in 38 games at the triple-A level, and the Indians are exercising patience when it comes to the prized prospect. With Jose Ramirez and Mike Aviles able to soak up innings at shortstop this season, time is on the Tribe's side for now. But Lindor has plans for 2015. "I want to be [in the big leagues]," he says. "I want to help the Indians win, I want to be with them and I want to contribute to the special things they are doing. Whenever the Indians think I'm ready, I'll be there."
