GLENDALE, Ariz. – Jhonny Peralta had one of his worst offensive performances last year, struggling to career lows for a full season in batting average (.254) and home runs (11).

A position change probably played a part.

After spending four years as the Indians’ starting shortstop as the heir apparent to Omar Vizquel, Peralta was relocated to third base in the middle of last season to clear room for up-and-comer Asdrubal Cabrera.

“I think a lot about third base (last year),” said Peralta, who along with a number of Indians’ regulars, was not in the lineup Thursday in Cleveland’s 5-all tie (10 innings) with the White Sox at The Ballpark at Camelback Ranch. “But I don’t want to say I didn’t hit for that reason. It’s baseball. Sometimes you have a better year than others. (Last year) I go down a little. Maybe this year I can be better.

“It’s hard when you change a position, but I don’t want to make excuses. Maybe (it affected me) a little.”