Indians Sending OF Oscar Mercado to Depth Camp to Start 2021

Oscar Mercado was up for the AL Rookie of the Year two years ago in his first stint with the Indians. Since then it's been a disaster for the 26-year-old, and things got worse Sunday when he was informed he wouldn't make the opening day roster and instead is being sent to the team's 'depth camp.'

Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Young Indians outfielder Oscar Mercado has had a tough go of it the last two seasons after he had a solid rookie year, and Sunday that career again took a hit as it was announced he was being sent to the team's "Depth camp" to start 2021.

The move means that Mercado won't be in the team's opening day lineup or even on the team's opening day roster.

It's a big setback for the 26-year-old, as many had him penciled into an outfield that could include free agent pickup Eddie Rosario and Josh Naylor, who came to the team from the San Diego Padres in a deal last July which included pitcher Mike Clevinger. 

Indians manager Terry Francona said they are sending Oscar Mercado to the depth camp.

— Mandy Bell (@MandyBell02) March 21, 2021

Last season Mercado again was expected to be the starter in center to start the 60-game season, but it became apparent quickly he was over his head in the Majors.

The outfielder was sent to the team's camp in Eastlake where he spent a good portion of the summer. 

Overall Mercado hit just .128 in 36 games, with one homer and six runs batted in. The season prior he hit .269 in 115 games with 15 homers and 54 runs batted in.

Oscar Mercado will not be Cleveland’s Opening Day center fielder. He was sent to the club’s depth camp today.

— Zack Meisel (@ZackMeisel) March 21, 2021