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The View Beyond Pluto: The Indians' Second Base Dilemma

The Indians aren't sure what to do with struggling second baseman Jason Kipnis
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The Indians aren't sure what to do with struggling second baseman Jason Kipnis

Indians second baseman Jason Kipnis has long been a fan-favorite, but the team has developed a dilemma this season.

"Based on when he's healthy, he plays well. When's he not, he doesn't," WKSU commentator Terry Pluto said.

The 31-year-old Kipnis started out the season strong, coming into spring training by swinging home run after home run — a stark difference from his lacklaster season last year. But as the season progresses, Kipnis is struggling to keep a solid batting average.

In 2014, Kipnis signed a six-year, $52.5 million extension. He's set to make $13.5 million this season. 

Pluto said Indians manager Terry Francona isn't sure what to do, because he always protects his players. And, the idea of Kipnis changing positions creates other problems for the infield.

As for Pluto, he thinks it might be best to wait on Kipnis and give him some days off to let some other players, like Erik Gonzalez, get some playing time at second. 

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Amanda Rabinowitz
Amanda Rabinowitz has been a reporter, host and producer at WKSU since 2007. Her days begin before the sun comes up as the local anchor for NPR’s Morning Edition, which airs on WKSU each weekday from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. In addition to providing local news and weather, she interviews the Plain Dealer’s Terry Pluto for a weekly commentary about Northeast Ohio’s sports scene.
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