Rajai Davis, Erik Gonzalez make Indians Opening Day roster

The Cleveland Indians made a flurry roster moves in preparation for Opening Day, which as of this writing is just a week away. Veteran outfielder Rajai Davis was informed that he will be making the Opening Day roster along with utility infielder Erik Gonzalez.

Another veteran invited to camp by the Indians, Mike Napoli, didn’t receive the same good news. The Indians will be “releasing” Napoli, then re-signing him to a minor league deal tomorrow while they decide was his permanent fate will be with the organization.

According to The Athletic’s TJ Zuppe, Tyler Naquin and Rob Refsnyder were told “hang in there,” which sounds like the most Terry Francona phrasing in the world. Naquin has three options left, so the Indians likely won’t be in a rush to cram in on the major league roster unless there is a definite need for him there. It’s still pretty surprising that he wasn’t guaranteed a spot over the 37-year-old Davis, who is arguably worse in every way other than speed and hitting exhilarating World Series home runs.

Third baseman Giovanny Urshela will start the season on the disabled list as he nurses an injured hamstring that could keep him out for up to two weeks.