Zach Walters, a potential candidate for the Indians’ Opening Day roster, was diagnosed with a high grade right oblique strain and will be sidelined for 3-4 weeks. In other words, he’ll likely begin the season on the disabled list.
Walters, 25, was acquired from the Nationals in the Asdrubal Cabrera trade last July. While he hit just .193 with 48 strikeouts in 146 plate appearances in the majors last season, he showed some power by hitting 10 home runs. The Indians were looking at him as a utility player this spring.
It’s worth noting that Walters dealt with a torn intercostal muscle down the stretch last year, but it’s unclear whether this injury is related. Either way, it sounds like he’ll get a late start on the season.
