Leo: Slam Duncan

He’s making his message heard loud and clear. Shelly Duncan wants a regular spot in Cleveland’s lineup. Duncan blasted a three-run homer in Tuesday’s 3-2 win over the Royals, the Tribe’s first Cactus League victory. It’s already the second homer of Duncan’s audition for a starting spot. If Michael Brantley slides over to center to replace the injured Grady Sizemore, it could mean more at-bats for Duncan.

Shelley came to the Indians before the 2010 season, leaving the Yankees after winning the International League MVP award with Scranton Wilkes-Barre. He played 33 games that year with the Clippers and another 85 with the Indians. Last season, he homered 11 times, provided 47 RBIs and finished the season playing well in Cleveland. He also happens to be a right-handed hitter, something the club is lacking.

Duncan is 3-for-7 with 6 RBI in just a few days on the job this spring. Not bad if you’re trying to impress the bosses. He definitely is.

Clippings…

* Making spring break plans yet? Jump on board for “Spring Break Me Out to the Ballgame”, you’ll have an opportunity to meet the Clippers players and coaching staff, get your picture taken with a player, receive a special t-shirt, and more! Click here for details.

* You won’t hear much about it, but Indians minor league camp started on Monday and those games will begin next week. Keep checking back here for more details on the guys playing on the “back fields”.

* The Clippers are partnering with the Central Ohio Youth Baseball League for a baseball equipment drive this Saturday from 9am to noon. Bring any new or used baseball equipment to Huntington Park and help a youngster!

* Clippers outfielder Thomas Neal is healthy and ready to contribute this season. MLB.com’s Jordan Bastian has more.

* Mark your calendar for Saturday, July 28^th at Huntington Park. WWE legend Sgt. Slaughter will be there… I have a feeling he’ll be a guest on our broadcast!