Cleveland Indians: Jason Kipnis may be back this weekend

The Cleveland Indians may welcome back Jason Kipnis as early as Friday, which would finally make the lineup whole in 2017.

Cleveland Indians fans are well-aware of of the team’s struggles on offense thus far in 2017. There have been a few outbursts, but it has been much more familiar to see run totals around three or less up to this point.

One thing fans may be forgetting is that the team is without a key piece in Jason Kipnis, although that may change soon.

An article on Indians.com, written by Tyler Mason, explains that Kipnis could be back as soon as Friday.

"Indians second baseman Jason Kipnis could make his season debut as early as Friday. Kipnis has been working his way back from right shoulder inflammation that began during Spring Training. Cleveland manager Terry Francona said before Monday’s game in Minnesota that Kipnis could return from his rehab assignment with Triple-A Columbus for the opener of a road series against the White Sox."

So that is fantastic news.

It is not a sure thing as of right now, but it does mean that he is close to returning, even if he is not able to do so on Friday.

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His return likely means Yandy Diaz will be sent down to Triple-A Columbus, but he will be next in line for a promotion in case there are any other setbacks in the infield during the season. He may even be slid into an outfield spot if needed.

As for Kipnis, his return should hopefully help provide a spark to this struggling offense. Lonnie Chisenhall‘s return resulted in some big hits right away, so perhaps Kipnis can follow his lead.

Having the lineup back whole again will help Terry Francona solidify where each player slots in every day, maximizing the collective potential of the group.

Kipnis’ return may not save this offense, but it surely won’t do anything to make things worse. The immense amount of talent on the team seemed to distract fans from the fact a main piece was missing, and his return will show just how much he means to this club and its overall success.