Baseball's New Wave by Jace Frederick

Author:Jace Frederick
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: JUVENILE NONFICTION / Sports & Recreation / General / Baseball & Softball/ Biography & Autobiography
Publisher: North Star Editions
Published: 2019-06-15T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 9

Francisco Lindor

Francisco Lindor is a lot of things. The Cleveland Indians shortstop is an All-Star, the 2015 AL Rookie of the Year runner-up, and the winner of Silver Slugger and Gold Glove awards.

One thing Lindor is not? A power hitter.

At least that’s what he’d tell you. The numbers, though, suggest otherwise.

Lindor belted a pair of doubles and a pair of home runs in a win over the Minnesota Twins in May 2018. It was the second time he’d done so that season, making him the fourth major leaguer since 1908 to have two such games in the same season. The two home runs were his ninth and 10th of May. This all after the 5-foot-11, switch-hitting leadoff man hit 33 home runs in 2017. But a power hitter? No, not Lindor.

“When I hit 50 (home runs),” Lindor said. “Then you can call me a power hitter, but it won’t happen.”

Though Lindor improved upon his home run numbers again in 2018, he has a way to go to reach 50. But it can’t be ruled out, especially given how good he is at just about everything else.

Upon entering the majors, Lindor was known primarily for his defense. With his range, mechanics, and strong arm, the Caguas, Puerto Rico, native was like a vacuum at short.

“His quick feet, decision-making, arm strength, quick hands, his knowledge of the game—all that allows him to lead the infield as a shortstop and be that field general,” Indians assistant general manager Carter Hawkins said.

Those qualities are frequently on display. On Opening Day in 2018, Lindor robbed Seattle Mariners catcher Mike Marjama of a hit. Lindor made a full extension dive to knock down a ball heading up the middle that would’ve scored a runner from second base. Then he picked the ball up and threw Marjama out at first base.

“We’re used to that kind of thing by now,” Indians pitcher Corey Kluber said. “Take it for granted almost.”

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