GOODYEAR, Ariz. (AP) — Jack Hannahan says some tightness in his lower back should not keep him from starting at third base on opening day for the Cleveland Indians.
Hannahan has not played in a game since March 15 and was not in the lineup Friday against the Los Angeles Angels.
Rookie Lonnie Chisenhall, veteran Jose Lopez and utility infielders Jason Donald and Gregorio Petit have split time at third for eight days. Hannahan said manager Manny Acta had told him he was the starter and that his playing time would be curtailed to see those other players anyway.
Hannahan returned to full baseball activities Friday and hopes to be in the lineup in a few days. He said he would like to get some regular at-bats in the final 10 days of camp to be ready for the opener April 5 against Toronto.
