Carlos Gonzalez is playing in his 12th major-league season, and he's never seen anyone quite like his Cleveland Indians teammate, shortstop Francisco Lindor. Considering who he's played alongside in the past, that's quite the feat.
"I’ve played with some great players over the years: Frank Thomas, Todd Helton, Troy Tulowitzki, (Nolan) Arenado. A lot of good players. A lot of good hitters," Gonzalez told Zack Meisel of The Athletic. "Frankie’s special. Frankie’s a different player. He’s not just a great player on the field. He’s one of those guys you don’t get to see very often in the game.
"Whenever he comes in the clubhouse, it feels like the whole place gets really bright. That great smile, that great intensity that he brings to the game - it’s unbelievable. I’m trying to learn from him. It might sound funny, because I’ve been playing the game for a long time, but every day we learn something new. And he’s definitely one of those guys that can push you to be better. Being around him is special."
Gonzalez has only appeared in nine games with the Indians after signing a minor-league contract with Cleveland in March. Of those, six have come with Lindor in the lineup after a calf injury sustained in spring training delayed his season debut.
The veteran outfielder's assessment was given a boost on Friday night when Lindor became the third youngest shortstop to reach the 100-home run plateau, and followed it up with another long ball to lead Cleveland over the Houston Astros.
Over parts of five seasons, the 25-year-old infielder has dazzled by hitting .288/.349/.488 with 101 home runs, 138 doubles, 13 triples, and 71 stolen bases in 580 games. He's played in three consecutive All-Star Games and has finished in the top 10 in AL MVP voting in each of those seasons.
