After falling out of first place by beginning the month 8-16 the Indians have turned to their farm system for help, calling up standout third base prospect Lonnie Chisenhall in time for tonight’s game in Arizona.
Chisenhall’s numbers in the minors haven’t been jaw-dropping and include a modest .265 batting average and .779 OPS in 65 games at Triple-A this season, but at just 22 years old the former first-round pick has been very young for every level and Baseball America ranked him as one of their top 40 prospects this season and last season.
Veteran utility man Adam Everett was designated for assignment to make room on the roster for Chisenhall, who projects as the Indians’ long-term starter at third base. However, like most young left-handed hitters Chisenhall has struggled versus left-handed pitching, so manager Manny Acta may give him days off versus tough southpaws early on. He’s batting seventh tonight against right-hander Ian Kennedy