Francona balancing time for Crisp, Almonte

CLEVELAND — Indians manager Terry Francona has been keeping a few things in mind when aligning his outfield for each day’s game. He looks at the opposing pitcher’s handedness, trends from his hitters and pertinent statistical splits, among other things.

But when it comes to outfielder Abraham Almonte, Francona has also considered another important element.

“I think you do have to keep it in your mind,” Francona said, “if we’re fortunate enough to move on [to the postseason], Abe can’t go. So you just try to take all the information.”

As part of the 81-game suspension Almonte served in the first half, he will not be eligible to participate in the playoffs, and that is one of the reasons why the Indians acquired veteran outfielder Coco Crisp from the A’s on Wednesday.

Before the Indians potentially punch their ticket to October, though, Francona has to balance the playing time of Almonte and Crisp.

With Crisp in the fold, the Tribe can conceivably field …

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