Cleveland Indians: Yandy Diaz is back, Shawn Armstrong sent down

The Cleveland Indians were in need of another position player, and as a result the team has recalled Yandy Diaz up from Triple-A Columbus.

As soon as I began writing an article about the eight-man bullpen, the Cleveland Indians made a roster move that will have fans excited.

That’s right. Yandy Diaz is back and ready to mash.

Shawn Armstrong is once again the casualty of a roster move, as Nick Goody has cemented himself as the seventh man in the bullpen. Armstrong has done well as of late, but it appears he will be the one on the move throughout the year.

Diaz last played with the Indians on April 20, but the return of Jason Kipnis meant Diaz was headed to Columbus.

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He slashed .236/.295/.255 in April, but his lack of dominance on offense was made up for with his great play at third base, where some thought he would struggle.

He now returns with major league experience under his belt, and may not even have to play third base. With Michael Brantley out for hopefully just a few days and Austin Jackson still on the disabled list, Diaz projects to be playing some outfield this week.

That is, unless Terry Francona wants to put Jose Ramirez in the outfield. But for now, it appears as if Diaz will assume that role.

Given Diaz does play outfield, it will give him experience at yet another position, increasing his value to the team. Now he just needs to pick things up at the plate.

He did pick up hits in 11 of his 15 games, but failed to hit a home run and drove in just two runs. But based on the way the entire offense has been playing, it is hard to call out Diaz’s start.

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It will be interesting to see how long Diaz lasts, given Brantley is only out for a few days. His return could mean Abraham Almonte or Austin Jackson end up losing a job, but we shall soon see what happens.