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10 MLB Rookie of the Year Candidates For 2015

By Nicholas Ian Allen

Mar 26, 2015; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Kris Bryant (76) at bat during a spring training game against the Los Angeles Angels at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 26, 2015; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Kris Bryant (76) at bat during a spring training game against the Los Angeles Angels at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jun 18, 2013; San Jose, CA, USA; Carolina Mudcats short stop Francisco Lindor (12) during the fourth inning of the California League vs Carolina League All Star Game at San Jose Municipal Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 18, 2013; San Jose, CA, USA; Carolina Mudcats short stop Francisco Lindor (12) during the fourth inning of the California League vs Carolina League All Star Game at San Jose Municipal Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

A veteran of three Futures Games after being selected with the eighth overall pick in the 2011 MLB June Amateur Draft, Francisco Lindor has long been the top prospect in the Cleveland organization. Now 21 years old and with 138 games combined between Double-A and Triple-A in 2014, the switch-hitting shortstop is knocking on the door of the Major Leagues.

Officially assigned to Minor League camp March 26, Lindor should make his debut in April or May this year. If he does, he is likely to take over as the everyday shortstop and could certainly become a major factor for the Indians in 2015.

Lindor has earned a reputation as one of the best defensive players in the minor leagues, and is widely considered to be the second best shortstop prospect in the game behind Houston’s Carlos Correa. That said, he’s improved his performance at the plate as well, which makes him a candidate to challenge for the AL Rookie of the Year award.

After hitting eight home runs combined in three professional seasons, Lindor slugged 11 in 2014, including five in 165 at bats in 38 games with Triple-A Columbus. This spring, Lindor hit .297/.308/.595 with two homers and five RBI in 16 games.

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