Francona eyeing Friday return for Kipnis in 'best case scenario'

Jason Kipnis may finally make his season debut later this week.

Thanks to shoulder inflammation that arose during spring training, the Cleveland Indians second baseman has yet to play in the big leagues this season. But with some rehab games under his belt now, Indians manager Terry Francona is hopeful Kipnis could suit up Friday against the Chicago White Sox.

"Best case scenario, I think he joins us Friday," Francona said Monday, according to Cleveland.com's Paul Hoynes. "He's going to play Tuesday and Wednesday and is off Thursday. Then he flies and joins us in Chicago. Again, that's the best case scenario."

In Kipnis' absence, Cleveland has been rolling with utility man Jose Ramirez at second, while Yandy Diaz has slotted in at third.

Getting Kipnis back would be a welcome boost for the Indians, who currently sit last in the AL Central at 6-7. The 30-year-old slashed .275/.343/.469 and hit 23 home runs last season in 156 games.