The Texas Rangers could miss ace right-hander Corey Kluber in their season-opening series against Cleveland.
Cleveland manager Terry Francona told reporters that in response to Kluber's heavy workload last season, the club is "slowing him down a little" during spring training. Kluber is behind the schedule of the other starters.
Kluber, of Coppell, made 38 starts in the regular season and playoffs combined last season, working 249 1/3 innings. That included three starts in nine days during the World Series loss to the Chicago Cubs.
Kluber has started the Indians' last two openers. Francona understands the importance of opening day but will keep the full season in mind in his handling of Kluber.