***Official Indians Offseason Thread*** (1 Viewer)

[Bobcat10]

Time to get past the ALCS and start thinking about next year and beyond. Maybe we can have some good discussion in here that doesn't revolve around the Yankees or the Red Sox.

Special thanks to my good buddy Dr Detroit for the wonderful format below. I didn't see a © anywhere in your thread, but I've made some slight tweaks that make this one better.

Free Agents (all likely gone):

Trot Nixon

Kenny Lofton (it's been great though)

Chris Gomez

Luis Rivas

Scott Elarton

Arbitration eligible:

Raffy Betancourt

Casey Blake

Option eligible:

Paul Byrd ($7.5M team option/hgh issue, likely exercised) EXERCISED

Joe Borowski ($4 team option, likely exercised) EXERCISED

Aaron Fultz ($1.5M team option, I think he's gone, he sucks) EXERCISED

Projected starters:

C Victor Martinez

1B Ryan Garko

2B Asdrubal Cabrera

SS Jhonny Peralta

3B Casey Blake

LF Jason Michaels / David Dellucci

CF Grady Sizemore gold glove

RF Franklin Gutierrez

DH Travis Hafner

Bench:

C Kelly Shoppach

UTL Jamey Carroll

3B Andy Marte

OF Jason Michaels / David Dellucci

Staff:

SP CC Sabathia (just call me Cy)

SP Fausto Carmona

SP Jake Westbrook

SP Paul Byrd

SP Cliff Lee / Jeremy Sowers / Adam Miller / Aaron Laffey

LR See above / Mastny

MR Masa Kobayashi

MR Jensen Lewis

MR Aaron Fultz L

SU Raffy Perez L

SU Raffy Betancourt

CL Joe Borowski

Other Factors:

3B Andy Marte (out of options) - Can he don an OF glove also? Will Blake be moved to the superman Util position again and then take over full time if Marte/Gutierrez/LF struggle?

OF Shin-Soo Choo (out of options) - The organization is very high on him, but he never stays healthy. The outfield is jammed packed. Was noted by Shapiro as a youngster that could contribute in 2008.

OF Ben Francisco - If a trade is going to be made, he will be part of it.

2B Josh Barfield - Could go to AAA for a year. {nice call here}

SP Adam Miller - I see him making major contributions to the major league club next year, I just don't know where or when.

Really need a run producing / middle of the order hitter (prefer LF). I just don't see it happening, although we are more likely to make a big trade (the best way to aquire such a player) than over-spend in free agency.

I've pieced this together based on what I think, what I've heard from Shapiro's State of the Tribe, and other sources. Sounds like Michellucci is back for round 2 in LF, as Shapiro likes to replace vets with youngsters if need be. But I also think there are enough pieces (excess starting pitching, outfield, youngsters) to get a deal done for a bat, it's just doing it that is the problem.

Finally, a quick summary of the CC situation from Mark: It will be dealt with “sooner rather than later” and “won’t go to Spring Training with it being an open issue”. When asked if C.C. would be traded if the two sides are “miles apart”, Shapiro said that the team is the most important thing and “C.C. will be a Cleveland Indian, no matter what the scenario next Spring”.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

 

[wadegarrett]

 

[Bobcat10]

Good news...Antonetti's staying....although I don't see Schilling in a Tribe uni next year.

Antonetti passes on Cards' GM job

Thursday, November 01, 2007Paul HoynesPlain Dealer Reporter

Chris Antonetti is staying. Third base coach Joel Skinner might be leaving and Curt Schilling wants to be an Indian.

St. Louis reportedly offered Antonetti its general manager's job Wednesday, but Antonetti withdrew his name from consideration and the Cardinals gave interim General Manager John Mozeliak the job.

Antonetti, who just finished his sixth season as Indians assistant general manager, had his contract restructured by President Paul Dolan. He'd signed a four-year extension on May 15, but it's believed Antonetti's deal was sweetened with a raise and more years.

"We're ecstatic to keep Chris here," Indians GM Mark Shapiro said. "He's an impact member of the front office."

There was speculation Antonetti withdrew from the Cardinals job because the general manager's authority might be restricted. Manager Tony La Russa and his coaching staff were rehired before a general manager was hired. Walt Jocketty, who resigned at the end of the season after 13 years in St. Louis, reportedly struggled for power with Jeff Luhnow, vice president of amateur scouting and player development.

Antonetti denied that.

"It's a fantastic opportunity and John will do a great job," Antonetti, 33, said. "It's one of the best general manager's jobs in baseball. Bill DeWitt [chairman of the board] is prepared to give the general manager all the autonomy he needs."

Antonetti, however, did not want to leave the Indians.

"I have an opportunity to work with a great group of people in a phenomenal work environment," he said. "I'm appreciative and fulfilled by the responsibilities I have in my current position."

Pittsburgh GM Neal Huntington asked for and received permission to interview Skinner to be the Pirates manager. One source said the interview could take place today.

Huntington, who spent the last 10 years working in various front office jobs with the Indians before being hired by the Pirates in September, knows Skinner well. Skinner, 46, has worked for the Indians as a player, minor league manager and big-league coach for the last 18 years.

Schilling recently sent letters to 13 teams that he'd like to pitch for them after filing for free agency. The Indians were one of them.

The 40-year-old Schilling says he's looking for a one-year deal.

Three Indians have filed for free agency: Chris Gomez, Kenny Lofton and Trot Nixon.

Good ranking:

Victor Martinez and C.C. Sabathia received the second highest rating among AL catchers and starting pitchers, respectively, for the 2006 and 2007 seasons from Elias Sports Bureau. The rankings are used to determine what kind of compensation a team would receive if they lost a ranked player through free agency.

Type A players are the top 20 percent of their group. A type B player is among the top 21 to 40 percent of their group.

New York's Jorge Posada was ranked ahead of Martinez and Minnesota's Johan Santana was ranked ahead of Sabathia.

Tribe starters Jake Westbrook, Fausto Carmona and Paul Byrd were ranked as Type B players.

Rafael Betancourt received a Type A ranking at the sixth best AL reliever. Closer Joe Borowski, ranked 31st, was a Type B.

Among first basemen, DHs and outfielders, Grady Sizemore was ranked 10th and Travis Hafner 11th as Type A players. Shortstop Jhonny Peralta was ranked 10th, a Type A, among AL shortstops, second basemen and third baseman. Casey Blake was ranked 15th, a Type B player.

 

[Bobcat10]

2nd time in 3 years...congrats Mark.

Cleveland Indians General Manager Mark Shapiro named baseball Executive of the Year

Tuesday, November 06, 2007Paul HoynesPlain Dealer Reporter

Orlando, Fla.- Indians General Manager Mark Shapiro, for the second time in three years, has been named Executive of the Year by The Sporting News.

Shapiro's Indians won the American League Central, beat the New York Yankees in the AL Division Series and held a 3-1 lead over the Red Sox in the AL Championship Series before losing three straight to eventual World Series champion Boston. The Indians won 102 games overall and tied the Red Sox for the baseball's best regular-season record at 96-66.

The 40-year-old Shapiro received the award Monday night in front of his peers at a banquet that starts the annual general managers meetings.

"There's not one moment in the season that stands out," Shapiro said. "I just remember standing in the locker room after we clinched the division and thinking how many games we had to win to get to that point. Then I looked around at all the different players celebrating and knew we'd done it with people we believed in and didn't have to compromise those beliefs in any way."

Forty-seven big-league executives voted for the award. Shapiro won with 13 votes. Colorado GM Dan O'Dowd, Shapiro's mentor when they worked together with the Indians, finished second with 11.

"I voted for Mark," said O'Dowd, whose Rockies lost to Boston in the World Series. "I thought he had a great year."

The Indians started the season with a payroll of $61.5 million, ranked 23rd out of 30 teams. They increased their regular-season victory total by 18 games from 2006 to 2007.

In the division series, they beat the Yankees, the team with the biggest payroll in baseball at nearly $200 million, in four games. Boston, with the second-largest payroll at $140 million, beat the Tribe in seven games.

"We've always been big fans of the Cleveland Indians," said Toronto GM J.P. Ricciardi. "They do a lot of things right and they're gentlemen."

Shapiro previously won the award in 2005 when the Indians won 93 games. They failed to qualify for the postseason that year by losing six of their last seven games.

"It's a collective achievement," Shapiro said. "There are so many people who contributed - coaches, scouts and an assistant general manager [Chris Antonetti] who is more like a co-general manager.

"Hopefully, we can take some of this hardware and exchange it for the kind we can wear on our fingers someday."

Shapiro just completed his sixth year as general manager. He replaced John Hart, another two-time winner of TSN's Executive of the Year award, on Nov. 1, 2001. Shapiro started working for the Indians in January 1992 as an assistant in the baseball operations department.

He was promoted to assistant director of minor-league operations in 1993. He moved up to director of minor-league operations in 1994 and held the job until becoming assistant general manager from 1999 through 2001.

This year's Indians team showed the organization's strong commitment to player development. Fausto Carmona, Ryan Garko, Franklin Gutierrez, Asdrubal Cabrera, Aaron Laffey, Jensen Lewis, Tom Mastny and Ben Francisco all spent time in the Tribe's minor-league system over the past two seasons.

"I know there are some people who are disappointed with the way the season ended," Shapiro said. "But there is no easy path in the American League. I said that in September.

"If you get through the American League, you've got a chance. But it's a tough league and a tough division."

Finally:

The Indians dropped right-handers Mike Koplove and Matt Miller and infielder Luis Rivas from the 40-man roster. Koplove and Rivas were outrighted to Class AAA Buffalo. Miller was released. Rivas rejected the outright and became a free agent. The Indians' 40-man roster is at 34 in preparation for December's Rule 5 draft. . . . The 2007 Internet Baseball Awards, presented by Baseball Prospectus, named Tribe left-hander C.C. Sabathia the AL Cy Young winner and the Indians' Eric Wedge the AL Manager of the Year. . . . The official AL Cy Young winner will be announced Nov. 13 by vote of the Baseball Writers Association of America.

 

[Bobcat10]

Indians pick up options on pitchers Byrd, Borowski, Fultz

Nov. 6, 2007

CBSSports.com wire reports

CLEVELAND -- Pitcher Paul Byrd, whose admitted use of human growth hormone served as a backdrop to the end of Cleveland's season, had his $7.5 million club option for 2008 picked up by the Indians on Tuesday.

Before Game 7 the American League Championship Series in Boston, Byrd acknowledged taking HGH after the San Francisco Chronicle reported he spent nearly $25,000 on the banned drug and syringes from 2002-05. The 36-year-old Byrd claims he took HGH for a medical condition and did so only under a doctor's supervision.

Byrd is expected to meet with Major League Baseball officials to discuss his use of the performance-enhancing drug.

The Indians also exercised their $4 million option on closer Joe Borowski, who led the AL with 45 saves last season, and $1.5 million option on left-handed reliever Aaron Fultz.

 

[Bobcat10]

Just call him TripG. Well deserved, 'bout time.

Sizemore is the first Indians outfielder to win a Gold Glove since Kenny Lofton in 1996. He is only the sixth Indians outfielder to win the award and five have been center fielders - Jimmy Piersall (1961), Vic Davalillo (1964), Rick Manning (1976), Lofton (1993, 1994, 1995, 1996) and Sizemore. "I was really excited when I found out," said Sizemore, who made two errors in 405 total chances this year. "Players and coaches look at the Gold Glove in high regard because they value defense. I've always taken pride in my defense. "I feel like I was better this year than my last two years, but I still feel I can get better out there."

 

[Bobcat10]

Let the rumors begin to swirl.

More offense: If the Indians haven't talked to Florida about third baseman Miguel Cabrera, they soon will. Shapiro says one of the ways he wants to improve the team is by scoring more runs. Cabrera made $7.4 million this year and could make $10 million in arbitration this winter. Cabrera, an offensive force, is reportedly unhappy with the Marlins. He also appears to be gaining weight in leaps and bounds. The Indians' concern isn't money. Shapiro says owner Larry Dolan has given him a "flexible payroll" to work with this winter. The concern is what the Marlins want for Cabrera. They reportedly are seeking at least one starting pitcher and a third baseman. The Indians have extra starters in Cliff Lee, Jeremy Sowers and/or Aaron Laffey. They have an excess of third basemen in Casey Blake and Andy Marte, but it's unclear how much farther they'd be willing to go. Cabrera has two years left before he could file for free agency. Shapiro said there could be a way for free agent Lofton to return next season, but it would involve players currently on the roster being moved in a trade.

 

[wadegarrett]

Let the rumors begin to swirl.

More offense: If the Indians haven't talked to Florida about third baseman Miguel Cabrera, they soon will. Shapiro says one of the ways he wants to improve the team is by scoring more runs. Cabrera made $7.4 million this year and could make $10 million in arbitration this winter. Cabrera, an offensive force, is reportedly unhappy with the Marlins. He also appears to be gaining weight in leaps and bounds. The Indians' concern isn't money. Shapiro says owner Larry Dolan has given him a "flexible payroll" to work with this winter. The concern is what the Marlins want for Cabrera. They reportedly are seeking at least one starting pitcher and a third baseman. The Indians have extra starters in Cliff Lee, Jeremy Sowers and/or Aaron Laffey. They have an excess of third basemen in Casey Blake and Andy Marte, but it's unclear how much farther they'd be willing to go. Cabrera has two years left before he could file for free agency. Shapiro said there could be a way for free agent Lofton to return next season, but it would involve players currently on the roster being moved in a trade.

Was just coming to in post this. Would love to see him in Cleveland.ETA: Only three players have hit 100+ RBIs in each of the last four seasons: ARod, Vlad Guerrero and Cabrera.

 

[wadegarrett]

SABATHIA TRIBE’S 1ST ‘CY’ WINNER IN 35 YEARSC.C. Sabathia of the Cleveland Indians was elected the American League Cy Young Award winner in balloting by the BBWAA. It marked only the second time in the 52-season history of the voting that a Cleveland pitcher was honored. The other was Gaylord Perry in 1972. Perry won a second Cy Young Award, in the National League, with the San Diego Padres in 1978.Sabathia was listed first on 19 of 28 ballots cast by two writers in each league city and second on eight to total 119 points, based on the 5-3-1 tabulation system. The lefthander, 27, who had a 19-7 record with a 3.21 ERA, led the AL in innings (241), was second in complete games (4), tied for second in victories and fifth in ERA and strikeouts (209) for the AL Central champion Indians.Boston Red Sox righthander Jose Beckett (20-7, 3.27 ERA) was listed first on eight ballots, second on 14 and third on four to finish with the runner-up total of 86 points. Beckett had the AL’s highest victory total and ranked sixth in ERA and seventh in strikeouts (194) for the AL East champion Red Sox, who went on to win the World Series. Voting is conducted based solely on regular-season play.The other first-place vote went to Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim righthander John Lackey (19-9, 3.01 ERA), who finished third overall with 36 points. Lackey led the league in ERA, was tied for the lead in shutouts (2), tied for second in victories and fifth in innings (224). Five other pitchers received votes.The votelayer Club 1st 2nd 3rd Points C.C. Sabathia Cleveland Indians 19 8 — 119 Josh Beckett Boston Red Sox 8 14 4 86 John Lackey Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 1 5 16 36 Fausto Carmona Cleveland Indians — 1 4 7 Eric Bedard Baltimore Orioles — — 1 1 Roy Halladay Toronto Blue Jays — — 1 1 Johan Santana Minnesota Twins — — 1 1 Justin Verlander Detroit Tigers — — 1 1

Free agent price just went up.

 

[Bobcat10]

SABATHIA TRIBE’S 1ST ‘CY’ WINNER IN 35 YEARS

C.C. Sabathia of the Cleveland Indians was elected the American League Cy Young Award winner in balloting by the BBWAA. It marked only the second time in the 52-season history of the voting that a Cleveland pitcher was honored. The other was Gaylord Perry in 1972. Perry won a second Cy Young Award, in the National League, with the San Diego Padres in 1978.

Sabathia was listed first on 19 of 28 ballots cast by two writers in each league city and second on eight to total 119 points, based on the 5-3-1 tabulation system. The lefthander, 27, who had a 19-7 record with a 3.21 ERA, led the AL in innings (241), was second in complete games (4), tied for second in victories and fifth in ERA and strikeouts (209) for the AL Central champion Indians.

Boston Red Sox righthander Jose Beckett (20-7, 3.27 ERA) was listed first on eight ballots, second on 14 and third on four to finish with the runner-up total of 86 points. Beckett had the AL’s highest victory total and ranked sixth in ERA and seventh in strikeouts (194) for the AL East champion Red Sox, who went on to win the World Series. Voting is conducted based solely on regular-season play.

The other first-place vote went to Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim righthander John Lackey (19-9, 3.01 ERA), who finished third overall with 36 points. Lackey led the league in ERA, was tied for the lead in shutouts (2), tied for second in victories and fifth in innings (224). Five other pitchers received votes.

The vote:

Player Club 1st 2nd 3rd Points

C.C. Sabathia Cleveland Indians 19 8 — 119

Josh Beckett Boston Red Sox 8 14 4 86

John Lackey Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 1 5 16 36

Fausto Carmona Cleveland Indians — 1 4 7

Eric Bedard Baltimore Orioles — — 1 1

Roy Halladay Toronto Blue Jays — — 1 1

Johan Santana Minnesota Twins — — 1 1

Justin Verlander Detroit Tigers — — 1 1

Free agent price just went up.

Let's get to work, Mark. Make him an offer he can't refuse.

 

[Bobcat10]

The scouts that Gotham Baseball Magazine have spoken with this week -- in preparation for our third straight trip to the Winter Meetings -- are all in agreement that Cleveland backup catcher Kelly Shoppach is one of baseball's up-and-coming prospects.They also are very sure that both the Yankees and Mets are actively keeping tabs on the young backstop, in hopes of dealing for his services.The Mets' needs are more immediate, as their interest in Yankees' backstop Jorge Posada are a bit "overblown" said one agent. Though Mets GM Omar Minaya's talks with Cleveland GM Mark Shapiro this past week were said to be more about Tribe starter Cliff Lee, as many as three industry sources have told GBM that "Shoppach's name came up more than once."The Indians aren't looking to deal Shoppach, but might be willing to listen if a package included Mike Pelfrey or Aaron Heilman.

 

[wadegarrett]

Cleveland Indians close to signing Japanese reliever Masahide Kobayashi

Cleveland.com

November 20, 2007

Paul Hoynes

The Indians are close to signing Japanese right-hander Masahide Kobayashi as a free agent to help their bullpen. Kobayashi is in Cleveland taking a physical.

Kobayashi, 33, has pitched nine years for the Chiba Lotte Marines. They are managed by Bobby Valentine, former big-league manager.

The Indians were also interested in Japanese right-hander Yasuhiko Yabuta, but it appears he is going to sign with Kansas City.

Kobayashi, 6-0 and 196 pounds, was 2-7 with a 3.61 ERA this year. He struck out 35 in 47 1/3 innings over 49 games. He was 6-2 with a 2.68 ERA in 53 games in 2006.

The Indians, under the direction of John Mirabelli, scouting director, have increased their presence in Japan over the last several years.

After reaching the seventh game of the American League Championship Series, the Indians entered the offseason looking for bullpen help and some additional offense.

 

[Bobcat10]

Cleveland Indians close to signing Japanese reliever Masahide Kobayashi

Cleveland.com

November 20, 2007

Paul Hoynes

The Indians are close to signing Japanese right-hander Masahide Kobayashi as a free agent to help their bullpen. Kobayashi is in Cleveland taking a physical.

Kobayashi, 33, has pitched nine years for the Chiba Lotte Marines. They are managed by Bobby Valentine, former big-league manager.

The Indians were also interested in Japanese right-hander Yasuhiko Yabuta, but it appears he is going to sign with Kansas City.

Kobayashi, 6-0 and 196 pounds, was 2-7 with a 3.61 ERA this year. He struck out 35 in 47 1/3 innings over 49 games. He was 6-2 with a 2.68 ERA in 53 games in 2006.

The Indians, under the direction of John Mirabelli, scouting director, have increased their presence in Japan over the last several years.

After reaching the seventh game of the American League Championship Series, the Indians entered the offseason looking for bullpen help and some additional offense.

Sugardale is already in negotiations for a weiner named Kobayashi at the Jake.

 

[Bobcat10]

Kobayashi’s stats since 2001 with the Chiba Lotte Marines:

2001 – 48 Games, 33 Saves, 52 IP, 47 K, 4.33 ERA, 1.29 WHIP

2002 – 43 Games, 37 Saves, 43 1/3 IP, 41 K, 0.83 ERA, 0.74 WHIP

2003 – 43 Games, 33 Saves, 47 IP, 30 K, 2.87 ERA, 1.19 WHIP

2004 – 51 Games, 20 Saves, 57 2/3 IP, 50 K, 3.90 ERA, 1.21 WHIP

2005 – 46 Games, 29 Saves, 45 1/3 IP, 33 K, 2.58 ERA, 1.28 WHIP

2006 – 53 Games, 34 Saves, 53 2/3 IP, 48 K, 2.68 ERA, 1.06 WHIP

2007 – 49 Games, 27 Saves, 47 1/3 IP, 35 K, 3.61 ERA, 1.37 WHIP

Consistant, I'd say if I had to pick a word.

Maybe the best comparison using Japan stats:

Kaz Sasaki

439 Games, 252 Saves, 627 1/3 IP, 851 K, 2.41 ERA

Kobayashi

445 Games, 227 Saves, 580 1/3 IP, 463 K, 2.79 ERA

Sasaki was then pretty good for 3-4 years with the Mariners.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

plus that guy can eat like a million hot dogs, good move

 

[wadegarrett]

Two sides set to meet on Indians pitcher C.C. Sabathia's contract

Tuesday, December 04, 2007

Paul Hoynes

Cleveland Plain Dealer

Nashville, Tenn. -- The timing is perfect. The parties in question are present, but it's still uncertain if the Indians are prepared to make a contract proposal to C.C. Sabathia before the winter meetings end Thursday at the Opryland Hotel.

Chris Antonetti, the Indians' top negotiator, and Scott Parker, Sabathia's lead agent from Legacy Sports, are scheduled to meet this week, but the conversation might be more preliminary than strictly dollars and cents.

Meanwhile, trade talks between the Indians and Pittsburgh about outfielder Jason Bay have ended without a deal being reached. The Indians felt Bay could give their offense the jolt it needed from left field.

General Manager Mark Shapiro said it would be a mistake to tie the Indians' proposal to Sabathia to whatever contract pitcher Johan Santana signs, if and when the Minnesota Twins trade him. The Yankees and Red Sox are trying to outbid each other for the two-time Cy Young winner.

"We internally frame our offers," Shapiro said. "We don't ignore what's going on [with other contracts]. Our primary goal is to retain the player and maintain the ability to build a championship team around him. It's not an arbitration case.

"Everything that happens is relevant. What's more important for you guys to focus on is [Jake] Peavy, not Santana. That one's done. Santana's is a fictional number being thrown out there."

San Diego is reportedly close to signing pitcher Jake Peavy to an extension through 2012 worth between $17 million and $17.5 million a year. Peavy won the NL Cy Young this year, while Sabathia won the AL Cy Young.

Of course, Sabathia's agents might see it differently since Sabathia and Santana, both AL left-handers, are eligible for free agency after next season. Peavy, under his old contract, will make $6.5 million in 2008 with a club option worth $11 million in 2009.

"It's not a question of which contract is more relevant," Shapiro said. "It just matters what C.C. listens to, not what the agent says. He's got to make his own decision and a big part of that will be listening to his agents."

The Indians have worked with Parker for several years. He formerly worked for Jeff Moorad, now part owner of the Arizona Diamondbacks, on Sabathia's first multiyear deal with the Indians.

"He's a guy we intellectually respect," Shapiro said. "We have good, honest, straight forward exchanges with him."

Shapiro said Sabathia's proposed contract has not caused them to walk away from any proposed trade or free-agent signing.

Regarding Santana, Shapiro said: "I'm an interested observer. I'll look at how it affects our division. The potential of not having Santana in the division is a positive. The potential of the Twins getting a lot of young talent is a negative. We'll see what they do and determine how it impacts us."

The possibility of the Indians acquiring the right-handed-hitting Bay died before the Indians and Pirates arrived in Nashville. Bay, 29, is a lifetime .281 hitter with 118 homers and 390 RBI in 616 games. He was bothered by a sore knee last season.

The Indians met for three or four hours Monday morning to discuss their off-season strategies. It's clear Shapiro wants to improve the offense, but to complete the 25-man roster, he needs a utility infielder. They're looking for someone who will play a solid second base and run.

"We'll probably have to do it through a trade," Shapiro said.

If the Indians can't find that kind of utility infielder, they'll revisit free agent Chris Gomez if he's still available. Gomez served the Indians well down the stretch this season.

Shapiro said the Indians will also explore Thursday's Rule 5 draft. Their 40-man roster is full, meaning they'd have to drop someone off the roster. Shapiro said it would not be left-hander Juan Lara, seriously injured in a Nov. 24 car accident in the Dominican Republic.

The Indians are drafting 29th, but could always make a pre-draft deal for another team to take a player ahead of them.

Brian Barton, one of the players the Indians left exposed for the Rule 5 draft, underwent surgery on his left knee at the end of the year. Barton hit .314 (122-for-389) with nine homers and 59 RBI at Class AA Akron.

 

[Tecumseh]

Pirates Bay to Tribe?Word surfaced in the morning of Cleveland's interest in Jason Bay being rekindled after a trade proposal apparently fizzled in the days leading up to this event. And ESPN reported late in the afternoon that the teams were working on a deal in which the Pirates would give up Bay for starter Cliff Lee and backup catcher Kelly Shoppach. Neither Pirates general manager Neal Huntington nor his Cleveland counterpart and former boss, Mark Shapiro, addressed Bay specifically in speaking to reporters. But each struck a similar chord in describing his team's trade status. -- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

 

[Bobcat10]

Pirates Bay to Tribe?Word surfaced in the morning of Cleveland's interest in Jason Bay being rekindled after a trade proposal apparently fizzled in the days leading up to this event. And ESPN reported late in the afternoon that the teams were working on a deal in which the Pirates would give up Bay for starter Cliff Lee and backup catcher Kelly Shoppach. Neither Pirates general manager Neal Huntington nor his Cleveland counterpart and former boss, Mark Shapiro, addressed Bay specifically in speaking to reporters. But each struck a similar chord in describing his team's trade status. -- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Pull....I wonder if anything went down between us and the Mets before the traded for Schneider. You would think Shoppach has just as much, if not more, value than Schneider. Maybe not though. Or maybe Shapiro didn't want Milledge.

 

[Bobcat10]

I heard a nasty rumor today that Shapiro turned down a Lee/Barfield for Bay trade. I really hope that is not true.

I've also heard many combos of Lee/Gutierrez/Shoppach/Barfield for Rios or Bay. Anything that didn't involve Gutierrez would be a nice deal, assuming only one prospect is involved.

Doesn't seem like anything is going to happen though. Hoynes and Olney said it's pretty much dead with Bay and Hoynes said the Rios stuff is fiction.

 

[Bobcat10]

Jamey Carroll, welcome to the Indians.

Whoooo Hooooo!

Actually, all this really means is Barfield will start the season in AAA.

 

[Bobcat10]

Tribe linked to Haren?

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2007/12/cleveland-in-th.html

Cleveland In The Haren Sweepstakes?

In mentioning the possible Dan Haren trade, Buster Olney mentions the Indians as a sleeper pick. They haven't really been mentioned in relation to the 27-year-old righty, as talks have been dominated by the Diamondbacks. The Yankees and the Dodgers are the other teams Olney mentions as interested.

This would make Cleveland's rotation for 2008:

1. C.C. Sabathia

2. Dan Haren

3. Fausto Carmona

4. Jake Westbrook

5. Paul Byrd

Mentioned as A's bait are Jeremy Sowers, Aaron Laffey, and, of course, Adam Miller. It's unlikely that they'd be interested in players like Andy Marte and Josh Barfield, since a trade of Haren would signify the A's beginning to rebuild. They'd likely want players with little to no service time. They could, in addition, trade Joe Blanton and Huston Street as part of this process.

 

[Bobcat10]

Ken Rosenthal getting in the mix.....article also talks about Bedard, Kuroda and Santana.

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7548574

Starting pitching market will get hot

Ken Rosenthal

FOXSports.com

This could be the week when the starting-pitching market begins to shake out.

The week when Japanese free-agent right-hander Hiroki Kuroda signs with the Mariners, Dodgers or Diamondbacks. The week when the Diamondbacks or Indians trade for A's right-hander Dan Haren. Maybe even the week that the Mariners or Dodgers obtain Orioles left-hander Erik Bedard and some team finally acquires Twins lefty Johan Santana.

The trade of Haren could happen first — and the Diamondbacks and Indians, two clubs deep in young talent, are in the best position to make a deal, according to major-league sources.

Once Kuroda signs and Haren is traded, the A's Joe Blanton would become the best right-hander available in trade or free agency, giving general manager Billy Beane greater trade leverage.

From every indication, Beane is poised to acquire younger players and gear toward the opening of Cisco Field in 2011. Such a rebuilding program would raise questions about the A's interest in Barry Bonds, who would fit with the club only if it planned to contend.

The Diamondbacks' offer for Haren is believed to include Class AAA outfielder Carlos Gonzalez, Class AAA second baseman Emilio Bonifacio and Class AA left-hander Brett Anderson, among others.

The Indians' advantage is that they can offer superior major-league ready pitching, including righty Adam Miller, who projects as either a top-of-the-rotation starter or closer, and lefty Aaron Laffey, a sinker-baller who could develop into another Mark Buehrle.

Haren, the starting pitcher for the American League in the 2007 All-Star Game, could form a potent trio with C.C. Sabathia and Fausto Carmona in Cleveland — and protect the Indians against the loss of Sabathia as a free agent at the end of the season.

Or he could combine with Brandon Webb to give the Diamondbacks a formidable 1-2 punch at the top of their rotation — a rotation that also would include Doug Davis, Micah Owings and possibly Randy Johnson.

Haren's contract makes him a bargain: He is signed for $4 million in '08 and $5.5 million in '09, and his deal also includes a $6.75 million club option for '10 that could become guaranteed if he pitches a certain number of innings.

 

[Bobcat10]

Great read for Indians fans looking for more info on our young talent. Tony Lastoria will be posting his top 50 prospects report, in great detail, over the next few weeks. Here is #41-#50, and also links to his first two installments of his nine part work. Great blog, by the way.

http://indianstopprospects.blogspot.com/

 

[wadegarrett]

Great read for Indians fans looking for more info on our young talent. Tony Lastoria will be posting his top 50 prospects report, in great detail, over the next few weeks. Here is #41-#50, and also links to his first two installments of his nine part work. Great blog, by the way.

http://indianstopprospects.blogspot.com/

 

[wadegarrett]

Cleveland Indians sign reliever Rafael Betancourt to two-year deal

Posted by Paul Hoynes January 23, 2008 11:25AM

The Indians have signed right-hander Rafael Betancourt to a two-year deal with a club option for 2010.

Betancourt filed for arbitration last week. He was seeking $2.5 million, while the Indians offered $1.75 million. Betancourt, one of the best set-up men in the American League last year, made $860,000 in 2007.

Terms of the deal were not announced.

"It's the best kind of deal there is because it's good for both sides," said Alan Nero, Betancourt's agent. "Raffie loves being an Indian, and he's excited because he's going to be there."

Betancourt, 32, was a force in an Indians bullpen that improved dramatically from 2006 to 2007. He went 5-1 with a 1.47 ERA and three saves as he beat the bushes in front of closer Joe Borowski.

"This is a significant deal for us because it allows us to have stability and consistency at the back end of our bullpen," said Tribe assistant general manager Chris Antonetti, who negotiated the deal. "Raffie has been one of the most consistent relievers in the American League over the last few years and he was an integral part of our success last year."

Third baseman Casey Blake is the only other Indian who filed for arbitration. He is seeking $6.9 million, while the Indians offered $5.4. Blake made $3.75 million last year.

The Indians have not had a player go to arbitration since 1991.

 

[INDIANSummer]

Cleveland Indians sign reliever Rafael Betancourt to two-year deal

Posted by Paul Hoynes January 23, 2008 11:25AM

The Indians have signed right-hander Rafael Betancourt to a two-year deal with a club option for 2010.

Betancourt filed for arbitration last week. He was seeking $2.5 million, while the Indians offered $1.75 million. Betancourt, one of the best set-up men in the American League last year, made $860,000 in 2007.

Terms of the deal were not announced.

"It's the best kind of deal there is because it's good for both sides," said Alan Nero, Betancourt's agent. "Raffie loves being an Indian, and he's excited because he's going to be there."

Betancourt, 32, was a force in an Indians bullpen that improved dramatically from 2006 to 2007. He went 5-1 with a 1.47 ERA and three saves as he beat the bushes in front of closer Joe Borowski.

"This is a significant deal for us because it allows us to have stability and consistency at the back end of our bullpen," said Tribe assistant general manager Chris Antonetti, who negotiated the deal. "Raffie has been one of the most consistent relievers in the American League over the last few years and he was an integral part of our success last year."

Third baseman Casey Blake is the only other Indian who filed for arbitration. He is seeking $6.9 million, while the Indians offered $5.4. Blake made $3.75 million last year.

The Indians have not had a player go to arbitration since 1991.

 

[Bobcat10]

Pluto from the wrap Sunday on Sowers:

I really believe Jeremy Sowers will bounce back. He had a tired arm early last season, was hit hard and sent to the minors. They gave him a new workout program and by midseason, his middle-80s fastball was topping 90 mph . He was 4-1 with a 2.95 ERA in his last nine starts at Class AAA Buffalo. He pitched twice for Class AA Akron in the playoffs and allowed one run in 13 innings. He threw five scoreless innings with the Tribe in September. He began to look like the lefty who was 7-4 with a 3.57 for the Tribe in 2006.

Big Pluto fan here, especially his baseball work.

 

[wadegarrett]

Pluto from the wrap Sunday on Sowers:

I really believe Jeremy Sowers will bounce back. He had a tired arm early last season, was hit hard and sent to the minors. They gave him a new workout program and by midseason, his middle-80s fastball was topping 90 mph . He was 4-1 with a 2.95 ERA in his last nine starts at Class AAA Buffalo. He pitched twice for Class AA Akron in the playoffs and allowed one run in 13 innings. He threw five scoreless innings with the Tribe in September. He began to look like the lefty who was 7-4 with a 3.57 for the Tribe in 2006.

Big Pluto fan here, especially his baseball work.

Saw that...would love to see it. Would give them a really solid rotation with flexibility to move someone or cover for an injury. Would also like to see Adam Miller up this year.

 

[wadegarrett]

Cleveland Indians' Sabathia could be gone for good

January 31, 2008 00:13AM

Paul Hoynes

Cleveland Plain Dealer

The next person to stop at Seven-Eleven should pick up chips and dip for C.C. Sabathia's goodbye party. They can hold it on the mound at newly named Progressive Field.

If the Mets complete their trade for Minnesota's Johan Santana, they might as well buy some cold drinks to wash down the chips because there's no way Sabathia will be an Indian after the 2008 season. If the Mets land Santana, it means they've agreed to a five- to six-year deal that could be worth between $130 million and $150 million.

The Indians are not going to give Sabathia a contract for that much money or that many years. But it's just the kind of contract Legacy Sports, Sabathia's representatives, will consider relevant.

The Mets have pursued Santana since the Twins put him on the market in November. They outlasted the Yankees and Boston, tentatively sending prospects Carlos Gomez, Phil Humber, Kevin Mulvey and Deolis Guerra to the Twins. Now all they have to do is satisfy Santana.

He has a complete no-trade clause and can veto any deal. The Mets, who have had a quiet winter after choking down the stretch in the NL East last season, are in a corner. They have to give Santana what he wants or the trade goes away. Not to mention their chance of adding a No. 1 starter to a needy rotation of Pedro Martinez, John Maine and Oliver Perez.

The Indians knew this kind of deal was out there. Their best bet to keep Sabathia was for the Twins to hang onto Santana this season. It would have given them a better chance of signing Sabathia using contract numbers more favorable to them.

If this deal goes through, Santana's contract will be the red light special.

Nothing really favors the Indians in this equation except for Sabathia and his family's stated desire to stay in Cleveland. Many former Indians have said the same thing before they left town for bigger deals.

The similarities between Santana and Sabathia are many, the most important being they are each eligible for free agency after the 2008 season. Here are some others:

They're left-handed.

They've spent their entire career in the AL Central.

They're Cy Young winners, Santana in 2004 and 2006 and Sabathia in 2007.

Santana turns 29 in March. Sabathia turns 28 in July.

Santana is 93-44 with a 3.22 ERA in his career. Sabathia is 100-63 with a 3.83 ERA.

Santana has one 20-win season, Sabathia has one 19-win season.

They've never had a serious arm injury.

There are differences as well.

Santana is a neat 6-0, 208 pounder. Sabathia's body type, 6-7 and pushing 300 pounds, might concern some teams in negotiating a multiyear deal.

Santana has more strikeouts, 1,381 to 1,142. Sabathia has more innings pitched, 1,406 to 1,308 .

Santana has made 175 starts with six complete games compared to Sabathia, who has 219 starts and 16 complete games.

Sabathia received the Indians' only proposal at the end of December. The four-year offer was based on the contracts of several pitchers including San Diego's Jake Peavy, Chicago's Carlos Zambrano, Toronto's Roy Halladay and St. Louis' Chris Carpenter.

"If Santana signs this contract, it will be another added reference point to establishing a market value for C.C.," General Manager Mark Shapiro said. "It will be another contract along with Peavy's, Halladay's, Zambrano's and Carpenter's. How relevant it is is up to C.C. and his representatives."

Asked if Santana's potential deal would ruin the Indians chances of signing Sabathia, Shapiro repeated his above statement.

The average annual value of Zambrano's five-year, $91.5 million deal is $18.3 million. Peavy, last year's National League Cy Young winner, recently signed a three-year, $53 million extension for an AAV of $17.3 million a year.

Halladay's three-year $40 million deal has an AAV of $13.33 million and Carpenter's five-year, $63.5 million deal has an AAV of $12.7 million.

Shapiro wanted some kind of resolution to negotiations before pitchers and catchers report to spring training Feb. 14. One could be coming soon, but during last week's Indians press tour, Shapiro made it clear he would pursue Sabathia even if he filed for free agency following the upcoming season.

"It's a question of whether C.C. wants to explore his alternatives," Shapiro said at the time. "Or whether we have an acceptable alternative to preclude him from doing that now.

"I don't handicap negotiations. I go in even keel with a desire to get something done. Most importantly, with a consistent belief in him."

Sabathia's agents have not made a counter proposal for one obvious reason -- everyone's been waiting for the Twins to do something with Santana.

Getting Santana out of the American League, apart from influencing Sabathia's fate, would help the Indians several ways. Not only wouldn't they have to face one of the best pitchers in the game five or six times a year, but the prospects the Twins are scheduled to receive from the Mets aren't expected to impact their big-league club.

If the Twins had received Melky Cabrera and Phil Hughes from the Yankees or Jon Lester or Jacoby Ellsbury from the Red Sox, it would have been a different story.

Not only would they have represented an immediate threat to the Tribe, but Santana's presence could have put Boston or New York on track for 100 or more wins this season.

Keeping Sabathia in Cleveland is another matter altogether. A matter that is getting more and more beyond the Tribe's reach.

 

[Tom Servo]

I guess here's rooting for the Santana deal to fall apart by today's 5 PM deadline.

 

[Bobcat10]

C-ya CC. Just win us a title before skipping town. tia.

 

[Bobcat10]

C-ya CC. Just win us a title before skipping town. tia.

OK...so maybe I got ahead of myself a little bit. The issue will be whether or not the Indians' brass will give CC a longer deal than what they would do for a "normal" player. He's gonna want five to seven years guaranteed. The money is there, at the very least in the short term. If we logically look at things, unlike the blowhard Hoynes, we can get a much clearer picture of how attainable, or not attainable, CC is. The next few lines were basically taken from my favorite tribe blog's message post (who was writing articles with the same basis as Hoynes' article above months before Hoynes' printed)...After 2008 season, $30.85M coming off the books (Blake, Byrd, Borowski, Fultz and Sabathia).If the options of Michaels and Carroll are not picked up, that adds $5.1M.Our total is now $35.95M coming off the books.Not one of those players will be resigned imo (except of course maybe Sabathia). They are easily replaceable, mostly from within our rich farm system (Miller, Brown, Lofgren, Francisco, etc), or possibly in free agency with all the money coming off the books.Also, the only potential FA after 2009, not taking into account options, is Dellucci.So what this is saying is, $25M/year is possible IF the Indians go against their norm when dealing with pitching...a longer contract. And, it still leaves approx $11M leftover from what's coming off the books.What this also tells us is if the Indians don't re-sign CC, they'll have alot of money to dip around in other places (ie Joe Nathan, Brad Penny, etc).This is why we can't pay attention to Hoynes.

 

[Bobcat10]

Also, prospects #1 - #50 are up on the site I noted above somewhere.

http://indianstopprospects.blogspot.com/20...ects-11-15.html

I have not read thru it all yet, but there is an amazing amount of detail and information in the writeups.

 

[Tom Servo]

The issue will be whether or not the Indians' brass will give CC a longer deal than what they would do for a "normal" player. He's gonna want five to seven years guaranteed. The money is there, at the very least in the short term. If we logically look at things, unlike the blowhard Hoynes, we can get a much clearer picture of how attainable, or not attainable, CC is. The next few lines were basically taken from my favorite tribe blog's message post (who was writing articles with the same basis as Hoynes' article above months before Hoynes' printed)...After 2008 season, $30.85M coming off the books (Blake, Byrd, Borowski, Fultz and Sabathia).If the options of Michaels and Carroll are not picked up, that adds $5.1M.Our total is now $35.95M coming off the books.Not one of those players will be resigned imo (except of course maybe Sabathia). They are easily replaceable, mostly from within our rich farm system (Miller, Brown, Lofgren, Francisco, etc), or possibly in free agency with all the money coming off the books.Also, the only potential FA after 2009, not taking into account options, is Dellucci.So what this is saying is, $25M/year is possible IF the Indians go against their norm when dealing with pitching...a longer contract. And, it still leaves approx $11M leftover from what's coming off the books.What this also tells us is if the Indians don't re-sign CC, they'll have alot of money to dip around in other places (ie Joe Nathan, Brad Penny, etc).This is why we can't pay attention to Hoynes.

Bobcat -- Do you have that link to share? I'm running short of time here at work so I'll analyze the above thoughts later.

 

[Bobcat10]

The issue will be whether or not the Indians' brass will give CC a longer deal than what they would do for a "normal" player. He's gonna want five to seven years guaranteed. The money is there, at the very least in the short term. If we logically look at things, unlike the blowhard Hoynes, we can get a much clearer picture of how attainable, or not attainable, CC is. The next few lines were basically taken from my favorite tribe blog's message post (who was writing articles with the same basis as Hoynes' article above months before Hoynes' printed)...

After 2008 season, $30.85M coming off the books (Blake, Byrd, Borowski, Fultz and Sabathia).

If the options of Michaels and Carroll are not picked up, that adds $5.1M.

Our total is now $35.95M coming off the books.

Not one of those players will be resigned imo (except of course maybe Sabathia). They are easily replaceable, mostly from within our rich farm system (Miller, Brown, Lofgren, Francisco, etc), or possibly in free agency with all the money coming off the books.

Also, the only potential FA after 2009, not taking into account options, is Dellucci.

So what this is saying is, $25M/year is possible IF the Indians go against their norm when dealing with pitching...a longer contract. And, it still leaves approx $11M leftover from what's coming off the books.

What this also tells us is if the Indians don't re-sign CC, they'll have alot of money to dip around in other places (ie Joe Nathan, Brad Penny, etc).

This is why we can't pay attention to Hoynes.

Bobcat -- Do you have that link to share? I'm running short of time here at work so I'll analyze the above thoughts later.

Sure, I think I posted it a while back in one of our other threads here.http://www.clevelandtribeblog.blogspot.com/

Best Tribe blog around.

Interesting that the post on there responding to the current entry is from MLB Hub about bringing him in to do the Tribe coverage. I've never been to that site, so I might go check it out.

 

[Pai Mei]

The Indians are and have been a reflection of their GM Mark Shapiro. Shapiro is outstanding at finding great young talent. He was a scout. He's so good at it that I don't even worry about how they handle their business in the offseason. Actually, its almost boring. Shapiro runs into trouble when having to make moves during the season. I still need to be sold there. If he was as good at decision-making as he is at acquiring talent, the franchise would be unbelievable.

As it is, I expect you'll see more of what you've gotten. Lots of competitive and entertaining teams year in and year out, but I wouldn't expect a string of titles. Maybe Shapiro will get one at some point if everything really comes together (and boy it looked like it did in 2007 for a while).

Indians fans can always relish the fact that that the last thing Joe Torre saw as manager of the New York Yankees was the Cleveland Indians celebrating on the mound at Yankee Stadium.

 

[Pai Mei]

I completely believe the Indians can let Sabathia walk and be more than ok. Shapiro is too good at what he does - he'll just find another stud pitcher.

 

[wadegarrett]

Key issues facing Cleveland Indians as they head to spring training

February 12, 2008

Cleveland Plain Dealer

The Indians find themselves in an unusual spot as pitchers and catchers report to Winter Haven, Fla. on Thursday for the start of spring training.

They were so confident after winning the American League Central last year and coming within one victory of reaching the World Series, that GM Mark Shapiro made no big changes to the roster over the off-season. Intertwined with that confidence a touch of recklessness grew.

Not the recklessness of an aging team with one last run in it, but a team that made the decision to keep its best pitcher, C.C. Sabathia, thumbing its nose at the threat of free agency, because it feels this could be a season to remember.

Shapiro could have traded Sabathia this winter to fortify his team's future. He didn't because he feels the Indians are in position to win and win big this year. If Sabathia leaves when it's over, Shapiro says his team will still be a contender in 2009 and beyond.

Yet with all that confidence, and win-it-now attitude, there are always questions in spring training. Here are the top 10 facing the Indians at the start of the 2008 season.

1. Question: Can Travis Hafner get his groove back?

-Best case scenario: Hafner regains his 2006 AL titles in on-base and slugging percentage, while correcting the 42-point drop his batting average took between 2006 and 2007.

-Worst case scenario: The downward spiral continues, more bad swings, more hard hit balls turned into outs by the Pronk shift. The front office, meanwhile, starts questioning the wisdom of extending Hafner's contract through 2012, not including a club option for 2013, at total cost of just over $65 million.

-What will probably happen: Hafner, always clear-headed and confident at the plate, is more relaxed after last season's contract hassles and becomes a more consistent run producer.

2. Question: Will the Indians sign C.C. Sabathia?

-Best case scenario: Owner Larry Dolan, after being revived by son Paul following the Mets signing of Johan Santana, decides to keep Sabathia in Cleveland for the next five to six years with a contract between $100 million and $120 million.

-Worst case scenario: The Indians get off to a slow start. Sabathia, trying hard too hard in his free-agent year, mirrors his effort in last year's postseason. With the Tribe trailing the Tigers by 10 games in late July, Sabathia is traded to the Giants for two so-so prospects and aging shortstop Omar Vizquel.

-What will probably happen: Sabathia, embracing the onrush of free agency instead of fearing it, pitches well as the Indians make the postseason for the second straight year. When the Indians October run ends, Sabathia files for free agency and waves goodbye to Cleveland.

3. Question: Can closer Joe Borowski slam the door again?

-Best case scenario: Borowski, once again giving Cleveland a double dose of heartburn and night sweats, does what he did last year. Maybe he doesn't save 45 games again, but he saves the games he needs to save. Last year Borowski went 23-for-25 in save situations in the AL Central, including a perfect 9-for-9 against Detroit.

-Worst case scenario: Borowski struggles, starting some frenzied midseason tryouts for closer. Rafael Betancourt, Masahide Kobayashi and Jorge Julio get opportunities, but the chemistry of a carefully built bullpen is ruined.

-What will probably happen: The AL, seeing Borowski for the second straight year, makes adjustments. After a couple of spectacularly blown saves, Borowski adjusts back. Betancourt closes now and then in preparation for 2009.

4. Question: Is Asdrubal Cabrera for real or a mirage?

-Best case scenario: Cabrera proves to be the anti-Brandon Phillips, the last nearly-raw rookie the Indians started at second base. The switch-hitter does a nice job in the No.2 spot, while displaying the same quick hands and feet that he did last year in turning the double play.

-Worst case scenario: Opposing pitchers knock the bat out of Cabrera's hands, exposing the .283 batting average he put up in 45 stretch-drive games last season as a quirk. By June 1, Cabrera is back at Class AAA Buffalo, but that's not all bad because a revived Josh Barfield is ready to replace him.

-What will probably happen: Cabrera will have his ups and downs offensively like most young players in their first full season in the big leagues. He'll play good defense, occasionally giving Jhonny Peralta a break at short, and hit between .250 and .270. He might have trouble holding the No.2 spot all year.

5. Question: After a great 2007 season, does the farm system have anything left to give?

-Best case scenario: The Indians might not have another 19-game winner such as Fausto Carmona on the farm, but some combination of Jeremy Sowers, Adam Miller, Laffey, Chuck Lofgren, Brian Slocum and Jeff Stevens should be able to answer a pitching SOS. Offensively, outfielders Ben Francisco and Shin-Soo Choo and infielder Josh Barfield could provide a jolt.

-Worst case scenario: There's a significant injury to a core player on the big-league club. The Indians have to trade prospects to fill the hole, limiting the help available from the farm system.

-What will probably happen: The organization's depth will once again protect the big-league club. Maybe not as much as last season -- which was a remarkable testament to the minor league system -- but enough to keep the Indians in contention.

6. Question: Where does Masahide Kobayashi fit in the bullpen?

-Best scenario: Kobayashi spends the first half of the season getting to know his new team, new league and new country. As the games grow in importance, Kobayashi's experience in pressure games from Japan pays off. He helps Rafael Betancourt in the set-up role, clearing the way for Joe Borowski.

-Worst case scenario: Two words: Kei Igawa.

-What will probably happen: Kobayashi, signed to a two-year $6.25 million contract, pitches in a variety of roles this season and does a good job. In 2009, should Borowski not return, he will compete with Betancourt for the closer's job.

7. Question: If the Indians need help at the trading deadline to get to the postseason, can GM Mark Shapiro make the right deal?

-Best case scenario: On July 31, the Indians have a five-game lead in the AL Central. By mid-August it's a 10-game lead. There is no urgency for Shapiro to make a big trade.

-Worst case scenario: By mid-August, the Indians can't even see first place. They're five games out of the wild card. Do they make a deal, putting the 2009 and 2010 seasons at risk, or do they pull in their horns?

-What will probably happen: The Indians, very much in the race in late July and early August, try to duplicate the Kenny Lofton and Chris Gomez deals from last year.

8. Question: Will the career-high innings that Sabathia and Carmona pitched last season hurt them this season?

-Best case scenario: Sabathia and Carmona, always handled carefully by the Indians, have no trouble bouncing back after pitching 256 1/3 and 230 innings, respectively, last year. Those totals include the postseason.

-Worst case scenario: Sabathia and Carmona follow a trend set by Chicago's starters. In the 2006 and 2007, after the White Sox won the 2005 World Series on the strength of its rotation, Mark Buehrle, Jon Garland, Freddy Garcia and Jose Contreras have not matched their innings pitched from the 2005 regular season. With the exception of Contreras, they've fallen off considerably.

-What will probably happen: Sabathia won't lead the big leagues in innings pitched again as he did last year with 241. He'll make 30-plus starts and be effective, but he's topped 200 innings only twice in seven seasons. Carmona should come close to the 215 innings he pitched during last year's regular season because he gets a lot of quick outs on ground balls.

9. Question: What's going to happen in left and right field?

-Best case scenario: Franklin Gutierrez keeps his strikeouts down, his power up and claims right field. The platoon of David Dellucci and Jason Michaels finds happiness and productivity in left field.

-Worst case scenario: Dellucci's hamstring isn't healed and Gutierrez can't handle the full-time role in right. Replacement Shin-Soo Choo takes longer to recover from surgery on his left elbow than expected and Ben Francisco is inconsistent.

-What will probably happen: Dellucci-Michaels and Gutierrez won't be lights out, but they'll be OK. Choo and Francisco will get a chance to win either job.

10. Question: Can the Indians score enough runs to reach the World Series?

-Best case scenario: Hafner rejoins Victor Martinez as a force in the middle of the lineup and the Indians get some good numbers out of Gutierrez.

-Worse case scenario: Martinez, who carried the Indians last year, has one of his bad-half, good-half seasons.

-What will probably happen: The Indians position players, the second youngest unit in the AL next to Tampa Bay, use last year's postseason

Link

 

[Tom Servo]

The Indians are and have been a reflection of their GM Mark Shapiro. Shapiro is outstanding at finding great young talent. He was a scout. He's so good at it that I don't even worry about how they handle their business in the offseason. Actually, its almost boring. Shapiro runs into trouble when having to make moves during the season. I still need to be sold there. If he was as good at decision-making as he is at acquiring talent, the franchise would be unbelievable. As it is, I expect you'll see more of what you've gotten. Lots of competitive and entertaining teams year in and year out, but I wouldn't expect a string of titles. Maybe Shapiro will get one at some point if everything really comes together (and boy it looked like it did in 2007 for a while).

Basically, John Hart >> Mark Shapiro

 

[Bobcat10]

The Indians are and have been a reflection of their GM Mark Shapiro. Shapiro is outstanding at finding great young talent. He was a scout. He's so good at it that I don't even worry about how they handle their business in the offseason. Actually, its almost boring. Shapiro runs into trouble when having to make moves during the season. I still need to be sold there. If he was as good at decision-making as he is at acquiring talent, the franchise would be unbelievable. As it is, I expect you'll see more of what you've gotten. Lots of competitive and entertaining teams year in and year out, but I wouldn't expect a string of titles. Maybe Shapiro will get one at some point if everything really comes together (and boy it looked like it did in 2007 for a while).

Basically, John Hart >> Mark Shapiro

Hang on a second fellas....the Indians in recent years have been a reflection of their owners moreso than their GMs. What are you basing your comment on Servo?Hart had **** Jacob's bankroll and skipped town because he knew what was going to have to happen.Is Hart not the one that didn't pull trades for Pedro and Schilling when he had the chance? I'll limb it and say that's one title lost right there, yet we needed to keep Jaret and his Flats clubbing abilities.Neither GM is known for their in season moves. Both made some good and some bad, or none at all. The one constant in the organization from 1991, when both Hart took over as GM and Shapiro was hired by Hart, has been Mark Shapiro. If we went move for move, trade for trade, whatever you want, I have no doubt Shapiro would match up with Hart (and probably exceed him in the years to come). Shapiro has also brought the orgainization to another level on HOW players are evaluated. It's the common case of the apprentice > teacher.In response to Pai Mei, I don't think the Indians were presented with anything worthwhile this past season, at least something that could have put them over (hell they were one win away from the Series). If anything, I think Shapiro needs to be more aggressive in the offseason in regards to trades and veteran aquisitions, when I think he can make more of the type of trade he wants to make. The deadline is full of odd stuff imo, and sometimes overpayment. You have to pick your spots.

 

[wadegarrett]

Shocking development...

Sabathia calls off contract talks with Tribe until end of season

Posted by Paul Hoynes phoynes@plaind.com February 14, 2008 00:04AM

Cleveland.com

American League Cy Young Award winner C.C. Sabathia announced on his Web site Wednesday night that he and his agents have broken off talks on a contract extension with the Indians until after the 2008 season.

The team's pitchers and catchers report to spring training today in Winter Haven, Fla.

Here is the message from Sabathia that was posted late Wednesday:

"This off-season, through my representatives at Legacy Sports Group, I have discussed the possibility of a contract extension with the Cleveland Indians. At this time, we haven't been able to reach agreement. Now that the reporting date for spring training is here, it is time to put aside contract discussions so that I can focus all of my energies and attention on preparing for the upcoming season.

"I look forward to a successful 2008 season, both for myself and for the Indians as a whole."

"I will do everything within my power to help the club to its first World Series appearance since 1997 and its first World Series Championship since 1948.

"There will be time after the season for the Indians and my representatives to discuss my contract status. I remain hopeful that these discussions will result in a contract extension that will keep me with the franchise for many years to come. In the meantime, in order to avoid any distractions, my representatives and I will not make any further comment about my contractual situation beyond this statement."

Sabathia will be a free agent at the end of the 2008 season. Usually when a player goes unsigned in his free agent year, he's determined to test the waters. General Manager Mark Shapiro has said this winter that he will pursue Sabathia even after he files for free agency.

The Indians made a five-year offer, including a four-year extension, to Sabathia at the end of December. The deal included 2008, the final year of his current contract worth $11.25 million, and four new years. The four new years were believed to be worth between $17 million and $18 million a year.

When the Mets recently traded for Johan Santana and signed him to a six-year deal worth $123.1 million, the bar for Sabathia was raised. Santana's contract is worth an average of $20.5 million a year. The main stumbling block in negotiations was length of contract.

Sabathia was 19-7 with a 3.21 ERA last year. In 241 innings, he struck out 209 and walked 27. Sabathia and fellow 19-game winner Fausto Carmona helped the Indians tie Boston for the most victories in the regular season with 96 each. The Indians lost the ALCS to Boston in seven games.

The 290-pound left-hander is the Indians' first Cy Young winner since Gaylord Perry in 1972.