CLEVELAND -- There was a point last year when Yandy Diaz nearly got the call to Cleveland. With one vacancy on the roster and a month to play in the regular season, the Indians were discussing whether to add the prospect for the push to the playoffs.
When the Aug. 31 deadline to add players for postseason eligibility arrived, the Tribe opted instead to trade for veteran A's outfielder Coco Crisp. Diaz's time had not come, but the fact that he was being considered was a testament to the progress he made this past season. It was also an early indication that Cleveland will be taking a long, hard look at the versatile Diaz as it constructs its Opening Day roster.