Indians' Jose Ramirez carted off after fouling ball off left leg, questionable for Opening Day
X-rays were negative, but Ramirez might not be in the Opening Day lineup
The Indians got quite a scare on Sunday in spring training action. Star third baseman Jose Ramirez fouled a ball off his left knee and had to be carted off the field due to his inability to put any weight on his leg.
Jose Ramirez is being carted off the field after fouling a ball off of his leg. pic.twitter.com/HPSlH0T3vc
— White Sox Talk (@NBCSWhiteSox) March 24, 2019
That is painful just to watch. It'll be even more painful for the three-time defending AL Central champs if Ramirez has a serious injury. For now, the Indians have made the following announcement:
José Ramírez has been diagnosed with a left knee contusion. X-rays came back negative.
— Cleveland Indians (@Indians) March 24, 2019
No timetable for his return has been set, but JRam will stay in Arizona for the time being to receive treatment.
Status for #OpeningDay is TBD. pic.twitter.com/9riw2Qp0wX
If Ramirez misses any time, the Indians lineup is pretty rough for an expected contender. Star shortstop Francisco Lindor is doubtful for Opening Day as he looks to get back from a strained calf. A lineup without both Ramirez and Lindor would look something like this:
- Leonys Martin
- Jake Bauers
- Carlos Santana
- Hanley Ramirez
- Tyler Naquin and we can probably just stop here.
Yikes.
All along this offseason, we knew the Indians had a thin offense and would need to be carried by Lindor and Ramirez. They combined for 239 runs and 197 RBI last season. The team ranked third in the AL in runs last year, but Yan Gomes, Yonder Alonso, MIchael Brantley and Edwin Encarnacion are gone.
Here's hoping for a quick recovery for Ramirez. From the Indians' point of view, getting their two stars back as quick and healthy as possible is a must. The good thing for them is they play in MLB's worst division.
















