My hopes of getting back Canzler depended on Hafner getting a minor league contract. We have no room for Canzler until we can place Josh Tomlin and others on the 60-day DL which isn't allowed until near opening day.
Not that Canzler is any big deal, but obviously lots of teams think he's almost 40-man roster quality.
Re: Articles
3242Big day yesterday for recently former Tribe 1st basemen: Hafner signed by NY, Canzler released by NY, Lars who had been released by AZ was signed for some reason by Chisox.
Other ex-tribesman on the transaction list:
Marlins signed Mitch Talbot, not long ago an OK starter; Kevin Slowey, hurt almost all of 2012 after we traded Zach Putnam for him (Putnam also has been darting around rosters ever since), Kevin Kouzmanoff, who had a couple sort-of-surprising seasons as a big league regular OF Justin Brown, A.G.'s "professional hitter" and Austin Kearns, who must be nearing 50 by now.
Must be someone from the Indians organization now in Florida front office.
Other ex-tribesman on the transaction list:
Marlins signed Mitch Talbot, not long ago an OK starter; Kevin Slowey, hurt almost all of 2012 after we traded Zach Putnam for him (Putnam also has been darting around rosters ever since), Kevin Kouzmanoff, who had a couple sort-of-surprising seasons as a big league regular OF Justin Brown, A.G.'s "professional hitter" and Austin Kearns, who must be nearing 50 by now.
Must be someone from the Indians organization now in Florida front office.
Re: Articles
3243Why wasn't there a spot in the Tribe organization for 'coach' Omar Vizquel? Hey, Hoynsie!
By Paul Hoynes, The Plain Dealer
on February 02, 2013 at 4:34 PM, updated February 02, 2013 at 4:35 PM Print
Hey, Hoynsie: I see where Omar Vizquel signed as roving minor-league infield instructor for GM Jerry Dipoto's Angels. Did the Tribe make him a similar offer? -- Dwain Slaven, Dade City, Fla.
Hey, Dwain: They discussed Vizquel, but the Indians already have Travis Fryman doing the same job.
Hey, Hoynsie: Is there a schedule published for spring-training workouts prior to the first spring training game? -- Ben Brown, Frisco, Texas
Hey, Ben: I'm not sure. In the early days of camp, before the Cactus League games start, most teams begin their practices between 9:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. Workouts usually last to about 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. There is no admission. In the Indians' case, fan access is not great -- nowhere near what it was in Winter Haven, Fla. -- but it has improved.
Hey, Hoynsie: What is Manny Acta up to for the 2013 season? Has he signed on as a coach elsewhere or is he taking time off? -- Jon Stange, Philadelphia
Hey, Jon: It appears Acta is going to take the 2013 season off. He's still getting paid by the Tribe. Eric Wedge did the same after he was fired in 2009.
Hey, Hoynsie: My husband is the biggest fan of the Indians even though we have retired to the south. His one wish on his bucket list is to go to spring training. I am concerned about where to go in the area and where to stay. Can you give me some advice? -- Carol Rezzolla, Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Hey, Carol: Spring training is a big business in Phoenix, so there are plenty of places to stay. The Indians train in Goodyear, Ariz., which is about 30 to 40 minutes west of downtown Phoenix. You can check out the hotels on line or go through a travel agent. Have fun.
Hey, Hoynsie: Over or under .500? Also, if the Indians are buyers at the trading deadline, if you were GM Chris Antonetti, who would you target to get? If they are sellers, who would they trade and what for? -- Noah Yingling, Sandusky
Hey, Noah: I think the Indians will be fortunate if they have a winning record this year. If they're contending at the trading deadline, I'd go for a starting pitcher. If they're out of it and looking to sell, I think they've already got a good idea what shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera or closer Chris Perez would bring.
Hey, Hoynsie: Terry Francona said Manny Ramirez was the best right-handed hitter he has ever seen. What are the chances of a Manny reunion with the Indians and Terry? I bet he would still put up better numbers than we got out of our DH position last year and I think Francona could handle him. Any chance of this happening? -- Bob Price, Erie, Pa.
Hey, Bob: None. Francona and Ramirez butted heads during most of his tenure in Boston, and that's when Ramirez could hit. I can't see Francona petitioning GM Chris Antonetti to bring Ramirez back to Cleveland after all the problems he had with him in Boston.
Hey, Hoynsie: Do you know why the Tribe preferred signing Shane Victorino over Nick Swisher? Or were they hoping to sign both? Did Swisher even receive any multiyear offers from any other club? -- Russell Bell, Cleveland
Hey, Russell: If you remember, the market for Swisher took longer to develop because he was waiting for Josh Hamilton to sign. The Indians went after Victorino hard at the winter meetings because they felt he was ready to sign. Victorino was also less expensive ($44 million) compared to $56 million for Swisher. In the end, it really didn't matter who said yes because the Indians weren't going to sign both players at that kind of money.
At his press conference, Swisher said he received other offers, but wouldn't reveal from what teams.
By Paul Hoynes, The Plain Dealer
on February 02, 2013 at 4:34 PM, updated February 02, 2013 at 4:35 PM Print
Hey, Hoynsie: I see where Omar Vizquel signed as roving minor-league infield instructor for GM Jerry Dipoto's Angels. Did the Tribe make him a similar offer? -- Dwain Slaven, Dade City, Fla.
Hey, Dwain: They discussed Vizquel, but the Indians already have Travis Fryman doing the same job.
Hey, Hoynsie: Is there a schedule published for spring-training workouts prior to the first spring training game? -- Ben Brown, Frisco, Texas
Hey, Ben: I'm not sure. In the early days of camp, before the Cactus League games start, most teams begin their practices between 9:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. Workouts usually last to about 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. There is no admission. In the Indians' case, fan access is not great -- nowhere near what it was in Winter Haven, Fla. -- but it has improved.
Hey, Hoynsie: What is Manny Acta up to for the 2013 season? Has he signed on as a coach elsewhere or is he taking time off? -- Jon Stange, Philadelphia
Hey, Jon: It appears Acta is going to take the 2013 season off. He's still getting paid by the Tribe. Eric Wedge did the same after he was fired in 2009.
Hey, Hoynsie: My husband is the biggest fan of the Indians even though we have retired to the south. His one wish on his bucket list is to go to spring training. I am concerned about where to go in the area and where to stay. Can you give me some advice? -- Carol Rezzolla, Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Hey, Carol: Spring training is a big business in Phoenix, so there are plenty of places to stay. The Indians train in Goodyear, Ariz., which is about 30 to 40 minutes west of downtown Phoenix. You can check out the hotels on line or go through a travel agent. Have fun.
Hey, Hoynsie: Over or under .500? Also, if the Indians are buyers at the trading deadline, if you were GM Chris Antonetti, who would you target to get? If they are sellers, who would they trade and what for? -- Noah Yingling, Sandusky
Hey, Noah: I think the Indians will be fortunate if they have a winning record this year. If they're contending at the trading deadline, I'd go for a starting pitcher. If they're out of it and looking to sell, I think they've already got a good idea what shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera or closer Chris Perez would bring.
Hey, Hoynsie: Terry Francona said Manny Ramirez was the best right-handed hitter he has ever seen. What are the chances of a Manny reunion with the Indians and Terry? I bet he would still put up better numbers than we got out of our DH position last year and I think Francona could handle him. Any chance of this happening? -- Bob Price, Erie, Pa.
Hey, Bob: None. Francona and Ramirez butted heads during most of his tenure in Boston, and that's when Ramirez could hit. I can't see Francona petitioning GM Chris Antonetti to bring Ramirez back to Cleveland after all the problems he had with him in Boston.
Hey, Hoynsie: Do you know why the Tribe preferred signing Shane Victorino over Nick Swisher? Or were they hoping to sign both? Did Swisher even receive any multiyear offers from any other club? -- Russell Bell, Cleveland
Hey, Russell: If you remember, the market for Swisher took longer to develop because he was waiting for Josh Hamilton to sign. The Indians went after Victorino hard at the winter meetings because they felt he was ready to sign. Victorino was also less expensive ($44 million) compared to $56 million for Swisher. In the end, it really didn't matter who said yes because the Indians weren't going to sign both players at that kind of money.
At his press conference, Swisher said he received other offers, but wouldn't reveal from what teams.
Re: Articles
3244Vinnie Pestano wrote on his Twitter account Monday that he might be in the best shape of his life.
"Best shape I've been in a long time," tweeted the Indians reliever. "Maybe ever." Pestano has posted a stellar 2.50 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 11.0 K/9 through 137 career major league innings. He could take over ninth-inning duties from Chris Perez at some point this season.
Source: Vinnie Pestano on Twitter Feb 4 - 8:50 AM
"Best shape I've been in a long time," tweeted the Indians reliever. "Maybe ever." Pestano has posted a stellar 2.50 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 11.0 K/9 through 137 career major league innings. He could take over ninth-inning duties from Chris Perez at some point this season.
Source: Vinnie Pestano on Twitter Feb 4 - 8:50 AM
Re: Articles
3245Terry Francona's co-author believes Cleveland Indians are getting a rejuvenated manager: Terry Pluto
By Terry Pluto, The Plain Dealer
on February 03, 2013 at 4:51 PM, updated February 03, 2013 at 5:04 PM Print
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The moment he heard that Manny Acta was fired as manager of the Indians, Dan Shaughnessy had a very good idea who'd be his replacement.
"I could see Tito taking that job," said Shaughnessy.
Tito is Terry Francona, the new Tribe manager. Shaughnessy is a Boston Globe columnist, and along with Francona, he's the co-author of "Francona: The Red Sox Years." The book is No. 2 on the New York Times bestseller list, describing how Francona won two World Series with Boston (2004 and 2007), but ended up losing a battle with ownership.
It's a fascinating and detailed look at how a franchise so desperate to win big and attract huge television ratings can lose its soul in the process.
"That's why Cleveland appeals to Tito," said Shaughnessy. "He wants to manage again. He wants to get back to teaching some kids. He wants to work for people he trusts, and he absolutely trusts [Indians President] Mark [Shapiro] and [GM] Chris [Antonetti]."
Francona managed the Red Sox for eight seasons, going to the playoffs five times. He was fired after he 2011 season when his team blew a nine-game lead and missed the playoffs on the final day. When the season was over, it was reported that Francona seemed to lose control of the team, as some pitchers were drinking beer and eating fried chicken in the clubhouse during games.
"I really believe that part became over-blown," said Shaughnessy.
He believes the real issue was the clash between ownership, the baseball operations people, the marketing types (desperate for cable ratings) and the manager. Trades were made to win now and attract fan attention, not necessarily because they made baseball sense.
"Tito needed a year off to heal and regroup," said Shaughnessy. "All he did was put out fires every day. The team had lost its way, everything had gotten so big. He was taking bullets in the media for his players and the front office."
The pressure of managing in Boston is incredible. The payroll often was the second-highest in baseball. Every game with the Yankees was a baseball Super Bowl. This franchise has chewed up managers for decades. Only one man (Joe Cronin, 1935-47) managed more games in Boston than Francona. The real story isn't the collapse if 2011, as much as surviving so long before things fell apart. In 2012, all the bad decisions haunted the team, as Boston was 69-93 under Bobby Valentine.
"Tito really wanted to manage again," said Shaughnessy. "He loves being in the clubhouse. He's there at 11:30 in the morning for a night game. He talks to players. He is close to all the clubbies and people like that. Baseball is his lifeblood."
The real concern for the 53-year-old Francona is his health. As Shaughnessy wrote: "Francona's multiple knee surgeries had left him with blood clots, staph infections and internal bleeding."
At one point, doctors gave serious consideration to amputating his right leg. He will be on blood thinners for the rest of his life, and has to take pain medication. He often is cold, which explains all the layers of clothing that he wears.
"He swims every day and works on his body," said Shaughnessy. "He can't run. His legs are gone. He has to deal with blood pressure problems."
Francona was fired by Philadelphia in 2000, and served as a special assistant to Tribe executives John Hart and Shapiro in 2001. Antonetti was with the organization. Over the years, Francona stayed in contact with Shapiro and Antonetti.
Shaughnessy said with Francona's father -- former Indian Tito Francona -- still living in Western Pennsylvania (New Brighton), "it's not a stretch for him to want to manage in Cleveland."
Francona has said that "this was the one job that I'd take," indicating he'd have returned to ESPN for another season had the Indians not wanted him.
"Tito know the Indians don't have a great roster or a big payroll," said Shaughnessy. "But he believes he can make a real difference there, and he will. He is an outstanding manager. The players and fans will love him."
By Terry Pluto, The Plain Dealer
on February 03, 2013 at 4:51 PM, updated February 03, 2013 at 5:04 PM Print
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The moment he heard that Manny Acta was fired as manager of the Indians, Dan Shaughnessy had a very good idea who'd be his replacement.
"I could see Tito taking that job," said Shaughnessy.
Tito is Terry Francona, the new Tribe manager. Shaughnessy is a Boston Globe columnist, and along with Francona, he's the co-author of "Francona: The Red Sox Years." The book is No. 2 on the New York Times bestseller list, describing how Francona won two World Series with Boston (2004 and 2007), but ended up losing a battle with ownership.
It's a fascinating and detailed look at how a franchise so desperate to win big and attract huge television ratings can lose its soul in the process.
"That's why Cleveland appeals to Tito," said Shaughnessy. "He wants to manage again. He wants to get back to teaching some kids. He wants to work for people he trusts, and he absolutely trusts [Indians President] Mark [Shapiro] and [GM] Chris [Antonetti]."
Francona managed the Red Sox for eight seasons, going to the playoffs five times. He was fired after he 2011 season when his team blew a nine-game lead and missed the playoffs on the final day. When the season was over, it was reported that Francona seemed to lose control of the team, as some pitchers were drinking beer and eating fried chicken in the clubhouse during games.
"I really believe that part became over-blown," said Shaughnessy.
He believes the real issue was the clash between ownership, the baseball operations people, the marketing types (desperate for cable ratings) and the manager. Trades were made to win now and attract fan attention, not necessarily because they made baseball sense.
"Tito needed a year off to heal and regroup," said Shaughnessy. "All he did was put out fires every day. The team had lost its way, everything had gotten so big. He was taking bullets in the media for his players and the front office."
The pressure of managing in Boston is incredible. The payroll often was the second-highest in baseball. Every game with the Yankees was a baseball Super Bowl. This franchise has chewed up managers for decades. Only one man (Joe Cronin, 1935-47) managed more games in Boston than Francona. The real story isn't the collapse if 2011, as much as surviving so long before things fell apart. In 2012, all the bad decisions haunted the team, as Boston was 69-93 under Bobby Valentine.
"Tito really wanted to manage again," said Shaughnessy. "He loves being in the clubhouse. He's there at 11:30 in the morning for a night game. He talks to players. He is close to all the clubbies and people like that. Baseball is his lifeblood."
The real concern for the 53-year-old Francona is his health. As Shaughnessy wrote: "Francona's multiple knee surgeries had left him with blood clots, staph infections and internal bleeding."
At one point, doctors gave serious consideration to amputating his right leg. He will be on blood thinners for the rest of his life, and has to take pain medication. He often is cold, which explains all the layers of clothing that he wears.
"He swims every day and works on his body," said Shaughnessy. "He can't run. His legs are gone. He has to deal with blood pressure problems."
Francona was fired by Philadelphia in 2000, and served as a special assistant to Tribe executives John Hart and Shapiro in 2001. Antonetti was with the organization. Over the years, Francona stayed in contact with Shapiro and Antonetti.
Shaughnessy said with Francona's father -- former Indian Tito Francona -- still living in Western Pennsylvania (New Brighton), "it's not a stretch for him to want to manage in Cleveland."
Francona has said that "this was the one job that I'd take," indicating he'd have returned to ESPN for another season had the Indians not wanted him.
"Tito know the Indians don't have a great roster or a big payroll," said Shaughnessy. "But he believes he can make a real difference there, and he will. He is an outstanding manager. The players and fans will love him."
Re: Articles
3246AL Central preview: Detroit Tigers still class of division; Cleveland Indians have a ways to go
By Paul Hoynes, The Plain Dealer
on February 03, 2013 at 5:30 PM, updated February 04, 2013 at 1:17 AM Print
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Royals made a big move this off-season. The Indians orchestrated a couple of their own and the Twins tried to sign every starting pitcher in sight.
Yet the balance of power really didn't shift much in the AL Central. It's going to be a two-team race between Detroit and Chicago. The Tigers are favored to win their third straight division title after winning the American League pennant last year only to get swept in the World Series by San Francisco.
The Tigers spent only 33 days in first place last year, while the White Sox were in the top spot for 117. Chicago's offense went cold in September and it allowed Detroit to seize control of the division even though it won only 88 games, the fewest among the six division champions.
Detroit, with a bottomless payroll, re-signed Anibal Sanchez to keep the best rotation in the division intact. They added free agent Torii Hunter to play right field and give Triple Crown winner Miguel Cabrera even more protection.
Chicago had a quiet off-season outside of exercising the options on Gavin Floyd and Jake Peavy to keep the rotation functioning. They lost A.J. Pierzynski, the catcher everybody loves to hate. Jeff Keppinger was signed to fill a hole at third base.
Kansas City GM Dayton Moore traded a big chunk of his minor-league system to get right-handers James Shields and Wade Davis from the Rays. He re-signed Jeremy Guthrie and traded for Ervin Santana in an attempt to give the Royals a starting rotation, something they've been missing for far too long.
The Indians signed outfielder Nick Swisher to the biggest free-agent contract in franchise history. He's going to play right field and hit in the middle of the lineup.
Twins GM Terry Ryan spent the off-season trying to repair the worst starting pitching in the league. He plugged some holes for the present and acquired help for the future, but the Twins are still going to struggle this season.
Here's a team-by-team breakdown of the AL Central race:
CENTRAL DIVISION
(Teams appear in predicted order of finish)
1. Tigers
2012: 88-74, first place.
Manager: Jim Leyland.
Strengths: They have a great starting rotation led by Justin Verlander. On offense, they have two big boppers in Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder and a defensive-minded outfielder in Austin Jackson, who runs down everything hit to Comerica Park's spacious center field.
Weaknesses: Unless something changes between now and Opening Day, the Tigers don't have a proven closer to replace Jose Valverde. Right now rookie Bruce Rondon is their main option.
Additions: RHP Anibal Sanchez (9-13, 3.81 ERA), OF Torii Hunter (.313, 16 HR, 92 RBI), C Branyan Pena (.236, 2, 25), exercised options on SS Jhonny Peralta (.239, 13, 63) and RHP Octavio Dotel (5-3, 3.57, one save).
Subtractions: RHP Jose Valverde, OF Delmon Young, C Gerald Laird, LHP Daniel Schlereth, INF Ryan Raburn.
Player to watch: DH Victor Martinez is set to return to the lineup this year after missing last season following two operations on his left knee.
2. White Sox
2012: 85-77, second
Manager: Robin Ventura.
Strengths: Despite the loss of A.J. Pierzynski and Kevin Youkilis, this is still a good offensive club, playing in a launching pad. Starting pitching is middle-of-the-pack, but could improve if lefty John Danks recovers from shoulder surgery.
Weaknesses: There are questions about what kind of offense Tyler Flowers will bring as he replaces Pierzynski behind the plate. Other than that, this is a well-balanced club.
Additions: 3B Jeff Keppinger (.325, nine HRs, 40 RBI), 3B Steve Tolleson (.183, two, six), RHP Zach Stewart (1-4, 8.58), SS Andy Gonzalez, SS Angel Sanchez, RHP Matt Lindstrom (1-0, 2.68), RHP Jeff Gray (6-1, 5.71). They exercised options on RHP Gavin Floyd (12-11, 4.29) and RHP Jake Peavy (11-12, 3.37).
Subtractions: 3B Kevin Youkilis, C A.J. Pierzynski, RHP Brett Myers, RHP Philip Humber, INF Orlando Hudson, LHP Francisco Liriano, INF Jose Lopez, DH Dan Johnson, 3B Ray Olmedo.
Player to watch: Can Alex Rios (.304, 25, 91, 23 steals) repeat last season?
3. Royals
2012: 72-90, third.
Manager: Ned Yost.
Strengths: With the exception of DH Billy Butler (.313, 29 HR, 107 RBI), the Royals' young and promising offense stumbled last season. If it can recover, this could be a dangerous team based on the work GM Dayton Moore has done to improve the starting rotation. He traded for James Shields, Wade Davis and Ervin Santana and re-signed free agent Jeremy Guthrie.
Weaknesses: Closer Greg Holland, with 20 saves in his big-league career, is Joakim Soria's replacement. Center fielder Lorenzo Cain needs to stay healthy. How does first baseman Eric Hosmer react to his first taste of failure?
Additions: Shields (15-10, 3.52), Davis (3-0, 2.43), Santana (9-13, 5.16), Guthrie (8-12, 4.76), INF Miguel Tejada, OF Endy Chavez (.203, two, 12), OF Xavier Nady (.184, four, 13), RHP George Sherrill (0-0, 27.00), C Brett Hayes (.202, 0, three), RHP Guillermo Moscoso (3-2, 6.12), RHP Dan Wheeler (0-0, 8.76), 1B Chad Tracy (.269, three, 14), C George Kottaras (.211, nine, 31) and OF Willy Taveras.
Subtractions: RHP Soria, C Branyan Pena, RHP Blake Wood, OF Wil Meyers, RHP Jake Odorizzi, LHP Mike Montgomery, 3B Patrick Leonard, OF Jeremy Jeffress, OF Mitch Maier and SS Yuniesky Betancourt.
Player to watch: If Alcides Escobar isn't the best defensive shortstop in the division, he's awfully close.
View full size
Outfielder Nick Swisher is the biggest, and most expensive, addition to the Cleveland Indians for 2013.
Chuck Crow, The Plain Dealer
4. Indians
2012: 68-94, fourth.
Manager: Terry Francona.
Strengths: The bullpen has been a cornerstone for the last 21/3 seasons, but some dependable parts are gone in Rafael Perez, Tony Sipp and Esmil Rogers. One of the poorest Indians' offenses in the past two decades should be improved with the additions of Nick Swisher, Mark Reynolds and Drew Stubbs.
Weaknesses: The starting rotation, headed by Justin Masterson (11-15, 4.93) and Ubaldo Jimenez (9-17, 5.40), will cause night sweats all season. Lonnie Chisenhall is getting a legitimate shot at third base. It could be a blessing or a curse.
Additions: INF Mike Aviles (.250, 13, 60), C-INF Yan Gomes (.204, four, 13), OF Stubbs (.213, 14, 40), RHP Trevor Bauer (1-2, 6.06), RHP Matt Albers (3-1, 2.39), RHP Bryan Shaw (1-6, 3.49), RHP Brett Myers (3-8, 3.31), 1B Mark Reynolds (.221, 23, 69), OF Nick Swisher (.272, 24, 93), LHP Scott Kazmir. Jimenez had his 2013 option exercised.
Subtractions: OF Shin-Soo Choo, LHP Sipp, C Luke Carlin, OF Aaron Cunningham, UT Jason Donald, OF Shelley Duncan, DH Travis Hafner, 3B Jack Hannahan, RHP Roberto Hernandez, 1B Casey Kotchman, UT Brent Lillibridge, RHP Rogers, OF Grady Sizemore, RHP Dan Wheeler, RHP Jeanmar Gomez, OF-1B Russ Canzler, 1B Lars Anderson
Player to watch: All eyes are going to be on Swisher and it appears that's just the way he likes it.
5. Twins
2012: 66-96, fifth.
Manager: Ron Gardenhire.
Strengths: The best part about the Twins is the middle of the batting order with C Joe Mauer (.319, 10 HR, 85), 1B-DH Justin Morneau (.267, 19, 77) and OF Josh Willingham (.260, 35, 110). After that things get dicey, which explains why Gardenhire is on the hot seat after consecutive last-place finishes.
Weaknesses: GM Terry Ryan spent all winter trying to repair the rotation, and with good reason. Twins starters posted the highest ERA (5.40) and batting average against (.291), while throwing the fewest innings in the American League last year.
Additions: RHP Kevin Correia (12-11, 4.21), RHP Vance Worley (6-9, 4.20), RHP Rich Harden, RHP Mike Pelfry (0-0, 2.20), RHP Alex Meyer, RHP Trevor May, RHP Scott Elarton, RHP Samuel Deduno (6-6, 4.44), 3B Ray Olmedo (.244, zero, one).
Subtractions: RHP Carl Pavano, OF Ben Revere, OF Denard Span, RHP Scott Baker, RHP Matt Capps, OF Matt Carson, RHP Jeff Gray, RHP Jeff Manship.
Player to watch: LHP Scott Diamond (12-9, 3.54) pitched well under trying circumstance last year. He'll have to do it again in 2013.
By Paul Hoynes, The Plain Dealer
on February 03, 2013 at 5:30 PM, updated February 04, 2013 at 1:17 AM Print
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Royals made a big move this off-season. The Indians orchestrated a couple of their own and the Twins tried to sign every starting pitcher in sight.
Yet the balance of power really didn't shift much in the AL Central. It's going to be a two-team race between Detroit and Chicago. The Tigers are favored to win their third straight division title after winning the American League pennant last year only to get swept in the World Series by San Francisco.
The Tigers spent only 33 days in first place last year, while the White Sox were in the top spot for 117. Chicago's offense went cold in September and it allowed Detroit to seize control of the division even though it won only 88 games, the fewest among the six division champions.
Detroit, with a bottomless payroll, re-signed Anibal Sanchez to keep the best rotation in the division intact. They added free agent Torii Hunter to play right field and give Triple Crown winner Miguel Cabrera even more protection.
Chicago had a quiet off-season outside of exercising the options on Gavin Floyd and Jake Peavy to keep the rotation functioning. They lost A.J. Pierzynski, the catcher everybody loves to hate. Jeff Keppinger was signed to fill a hole at third base.
Kansas City GM Dayton Moore traded a big chunk of his minor-league system to get right-handers James Shields and Wade Davis from the Rays. He re-signed Jeremy Guthrie and traded for Ervin Santana in an attempt to give the Royals a starting rotation, something they've been missing for far too long.
The Indians signed outfielder Nick Swisher to the biggest free-agent contract in franchise history. He's going to play right field and hit in the middle of the lineup.
Twins GM Terry Ryan spent the off-season trying to repair the worst starting pitching in the league. He plugged some holes for the present and acquired help for the future, but the Twins are still going to struggle this season.
Here's a team-by-team breakdown of the AL Central race:
CENTRAL DIVISION
(Teams appear in predicted order of finish)
1. Tigers
2012: 88-74, first place.
Manager: Jim Leyland.
Strengths: They have a great starting rotation led by Justin Verlander. On offense, they have two big boppers in Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder and a defensive-minded outfielder in Austin Jackson, who runs down everything hit to Comerica Park's spacious center field.
Weaknesses: Unless something changes between now and Opening Day, the Tigers don't have a proven closer to replace Jose Valverde. Right now rookie Bruce Rondon is their main option.
Additions: RHP Anibal Sanchez (9-13, 3.81 ERA), OF Torii Hunter (.313, 16 HR, 92 RBI), C Branyan Pena (.236, 2, 25), exercised options on SS Jhonny Peralta (.239, 13, 63) and RHP Octavio Dotel (5-3, 3.57, one save).
Subtractions: RHP Jose Valverde, OF Delmon Young, C Gerald Laird, LHP Daniel Schlereth, INF Ryan Raburn.
Player to watch: DH Victor Martinez is set to return to the lineup this year after missing last season following two operations on his left knee.
2. White Sox
2012: 85-77, second
Manager: Robin Ventura.
Strengths: Despite the loss of A.J. Pierzynski and Kevin Youkilis, this is still a good offensive club, playing in a launching pad. Starting pitching is middle-of-the-pack, but could improve if lefty John Danks recovers from shoulder surgery.
Weaknesses: There are questions about what kind of offense Tyler Flowers will bring as he replaces Pierzynski behind the plate. Other than that, this is a well-balanced club.
Additions: 3B Jeff Keppinger (.325, nine HRs, 40 RBI), 3B Steve Tolleson (.183, two, six), RHP Zach Stewart (1-4, 8.58), SS Andy Gonzalez, SS Angel Sanchez, RHP Matt Lindstrom (1-0, 2.68), RHP Jeff Gray (6-1, 5.71). They exercised options on RHP Gavin Floyd (12-11, 4.29) and RHP Jake Peavy (11-12, 3.37).
Subtractions: 3B Kevin Youkilis, C A.J. Pierzynski, RHP Brett Myers, RHP Philip Humber, INF Orlando Hudson, LHP Francisco Liriano, INF Jose Lopez, DH Dan Johnson, 3B Ray Olmedo.
Player to watch: Can Alex Rios (.304, 25, 91, 23 steals) repeat last season?
3. Royals
2012: 72-90, third.
Manager: Ned Yost.
Strengths: With the exception of DH Billy Butler (.313, 29 HR, 107 RBI), the Royals' young and promising offense stumbled last season. If it can recover, this could be a dangerous team based on the work GM Dayton Moore has done to improve the starting rotation. He traded for James Shields, Wade Davis and Ervin Santana and re-signed free agent Jeremy Guthrie.
Weaknesses: Closer Greg Holland, with 20 saves in his big-league career, is Joakim Soria's replacement. Center fielder Lorenzo Cain needs to stay healthy. How does first baseman Eric Hosmer react to his first taste of failure?
Additions: Shields (15-10, 3.52), Davis (3-0, 2.43), Santana (9-13, 5.16), Guthrie (8-12, 4.76), INF Miguel Tejada, OF Endy Chavez (.203, two, 12), OF Xavier Nady (.184, four, 13), RHP George Sherrill (0-0, 27.00), C Brett Hayes (.202, 0, three), RHP Guillermo Moscoso (3-2, 6.12), RHP Dan Wheeler (0-0, 8.76), 1B Chad Tracy (.269, three, 14), C George Kottaras (.211, nine, 31) and OF Willy Taveras.
Subtractions: RHP Soria, C Branyan Pena, RHP Blake Wood, OF Wil Meyers, RHP Jake Odorizzi, LHP Mike Montgomery, 3B Patrick Leonard, OF Jeremy Jeffress, OF Mitch Maier and SS Yuniesky Betancourt.
Player to watch: If Alcides Escobar isn't the best defensive shortstop in the division, he's awfully close.
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Outfielder Nick Swisher is the biggest, and most expensive, addition to the Cleveland Indians for 2013.
Chuck Crow, The Plain Dealer
4. Indians
2012: 68-94, fourth.
Manager: Terry Francona.
Strengths: The bullpen has been a cornerstone for the last 21/3 seasons, but some dependable parts are gone in Rafael Perez, Tony Sipp and Esmil Rogers. One of the poorest Indians' offenses in the past two decades should be improved with the additions of Nick Swisher, Mark Reynolds and Drew Stubbs.
Weaknesses: The starting rotation, headed by Justin Masterson (11-15, 4.93) and Ubaldo Jimenez (9-17, 5.40), will cause night sweats all season. Lonnie Chisenhall is getting a legitimate shot at third base. It could be a blessing or a curse.
Additions: INF Mike Aviles (.250, 13, 60), C-INF Yan Gomes (.204, four, 13), OF Stubbs (.213, 14, 40), RHP Trevor Bauer (1-2, 6.06), RHP Matt Albers (3-1, 2.39), RHP Bryan Shaw (1-6, 3.49), RHP Brett Myers (3-8, 3.31), 1B Mark Reynolds (.221, 23, 69), OF Nick Swisher (.272, 24, 93), LHP Scott Kazmir. Jimenez had his 2013 option exercised.
Subtractions: OF Shin-Soo Choo, LHP Sipp, C Luke Carlin, OF Aaron Cunningham, UT Jason Donald, OF Shelley Duncan, DH Travis Hafner, 3B Jack Hannahan, RHP Roberto Hernandez, 1B Casey Kotchman, UT Brent Lillibridge, RHP Rogers, OF Grady Sizemore, RHP Dan Wheeler, RHP Jeanmar Gomez, OF-1B Russ Canzler, 1B Lars Anderson
Player to watch: All eyes are going to be on Swisher and it appears that's just the way he likes it.
5. Twins
2012: 66-96, fifth.
Manager: Ron Gardenhire.
Strengths: The best part about the Twins is the middle of the batting order with C Joe Mauer (.319, 10 HR, 85), 1B-DH Justin Morneau (.267, 19, 77) and OF Josh Willingham (.260, 35, 110). After that things get dicey, which explains why Gardenhire is on the hot seat after consecutive last-place finishes.
Weaknesses: GM Terry Ryan spent all winter trying to repair the rotation, and with good reason. Twins starters posted the highest ERA (5.40) and batting average against (.291), while throwing the fewest innings in the American League last year.
Additions: RHP Kevin Correia (12-11, 4.21), RHP Vance Worley (6-9, 4.20), RHP Rich Harden, RHP Mike Pelfry (0-0, 2.20), RHP Alex Meyer, RHP Trevor May, RHP Scott Elarton, RHP Samuel Deduno (6-6, 4.44), 3B Ray Olmedo (.244, zero, one).
Subtractions: RHP Carl Pavano, OF Ben Revere, OF Denard Span, RHP Scott Baker, RHP Matt Capps, OF Matt Carson, RHP Jeff Gray, RHP Jeff Manship.
Player to watch: LHP Scott Diamond (12-9, 3.54) pitched well under trying circumstance last year. He'll have to do it again in 2013.
Re: Articles
3247Scott Elarton signed by the Twins?! I thought he'd become a pitching coach by now.
Re: Articles
3248Indians To Sign Jeremy Hermida
By Ben Nicholson-Smith [February 4 at 9:23am CST]
We'll track the day's minor moves here...
The Indians have agreed to sign Jeremy Hermida to a minor league contract, ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick reports (on Twitter). Hermida played for the Padres in 2012, appearing in 13 games. The 29-year-old was regarded as a top prospect early in his professional career and he hit 18 home runs for the 2007 Marlins, but he hasn't produced on offense in the past three seasons. Hermida, a first round pick in 2002, bats from the left side.
Read more at http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/#2BGxDRHtGeFtixBA.99
By Ben Nicholson-Smith [February 4 at 9:23am CST]
We'll track the day's minor moves here...
The Indians have agreed to sign Jeremy Hermida to a minor league contract, ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick reports (on Twitter). Hermida played for the Padres in 2012, appearing in 13 games. The 29-year-old was regarded as a top prospect early in his professional career and he hit 18 home runs for the 2007 Marlins, but he hasn't produced on offense in the past three seasons. Hermida, a first round pick in 2002, bats from the left side.
Read more at http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/#2BGxDRHtGeFtixBA.99
Re: Articles
3250Got that right sea! Interesting to see Oakland give up very little to grap Jed Lowrie. Shows the value Cleveland was holding out for in any A Cab trade and good for them. Through the first half A Cab should look very solid as he has for the last two years. Trade him at the deadline....
Lindor should see AA this year and get a big league invite next ST....
Lindor should see AA this year and get a big league invite next ST....
Re: Articles
3251Indians signed C Omir Santos to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training.
Santos, who turns 32 in April, appeared in three games with the Tigers last season and batted .310/.318/.429 in 61 games at the Triple-A level between Detroit and Colorado. He'll likely serve as catching depth in the minors.
Source: Jordan Bastian on Twitter Feb 5 - 10:39 AM
Santos, who turns 32 in April, appeared in three games with the Tigers last season and batted .310/.318/.429 in 61 games at the Triple-A level between Detroit and Colorado. He'll likely serve as catching depth in the minors.
Source: Jordan Bastian on Twitter Feb 5 - 10:39 AM
Re: Articles
3252More detail, if needed(?) on Jeremy Hermida.
On Monday, Cleveland reached an agreement on a Minor League contract with free-agent outfielder Jeremy Hermida, pending the completion of a medical review. The addition of Hermida would give the Tribe nine outfielders in camp with the team this spring.
As things currently stand, the Indians plan to open this season with the starting outfield trio of Michael Brantley, Drew Stubbs and Nick Swisher. Depending on how Cleveland builds its bench, the team could break camp with as many as two additional outfielders on the roster.
The top candidate for the fourth outfielder role appears to be Ezequiel Carrera, who is out of Minor League options. Carrera and Tim Fedroff are the only outfielders on the Tribe's 40-man roster at the moment. The current crop of outfielders expected to be in camp as non-roster invitees includes Ben Francisco, Matt Carson and Cedric Hunter.
In all, Cleveland has 19 players officially lined up as non-roster participants in Spring Training.
Hermida, 29, played 52 games for the Red Sox in 2010, when new Indians manager Terry Francona was at the helm in Boston. Over the past few seasons, however, the left-handed-hitting corner outfielder has bounced between the Majors and Minors for a handful of teams.
Last season, Hermida hit .250 (6-for-24) in 13 games for San Diego and posted a .252 average with 10 extra-base hits and 22 RBIs in 44 games for Triple-A Tucson in the Padres' system. Over the past three seasons, Hermida has hit .214 with a .277 on-base percentage, eight home runs and 40 RBIs in 116 games between stints with the Red Sox, A's, Reds and Padres.
Hermida's last full season in the big leagues came in 2009, when he hit .259 with a .348 on-base percentage, 13 homers and 47 RBIs in 129 games for the Marlins. Hermida -- a first-round pick (11th overall) by the Marlins in the 2002 First-Year Player Draft -- hit .267 with a .345 OBP and an average of 16 homers, 23 doubles and 57 RBIs per year over the 2008-09 seasons.
On Monday, Cleveland reached an agreement on a Minor League contract with free-agent outfielder Jeremy Hermida, pending the completion of a medical review. The addition of Hermida would give the Tribe nine outfielders in camp with the team this spring.
As things currently stand, the Indians plan to open this season with the starting outfield trio of Michael Brantley, Drew Stubbs and Nick Swisher. Depending on how Cleveland builds its bench, the team could break camp with as many as two additional outfielders on the roster.
The top candidate for the fourth outfielder role appears to be Ezequiel Carrera, who is out of Minor League options. Carrera and Tim Fedroff are the only outfielders on the Tribe's 40-man roster at the moment. The current crop of outfielders expected to be in camp as non-roster invitees includes Ben Francisco, Matt Carson and Cedric Hunter.
In all, Cleveland has 19 players officially lined up as non-roster participants in Spring Training.
Hermida, 29, played 52 games for the Red Sox in 2010, when new Indians manager Terry Francona was at the helm in Boston. Over the past few seasons, however, the left-handed-hitting corner outfielder has bounced between the Majors and Minors for a handful of teams.
Last season, Hermida hit .250 (6-for-24) in 13 games for San Diego and posted a .252 average with 10 extra-base hits and 22 RBIs in 44 games for Triple-A Tucson in the Padres' system. Over the past three seasons, Hermida has hit .214 with a .277 on-base percentage, eight home runs and 40 RBIs in 116 games between stints with the Red Sox, A's, Reds and Padres.
Hermida's last full season in the big leagues came in 2009, when he hit .259 with a .348 on-base percentage, 13 homers and 47 RBIs in 129 games for the Marlins. Hermida -- a first-round pick (11th overall) by the Marlins in the 2002 First-Year Player Draft -- hit .267 with a .345 OBP and an average of 16 homers, 23 doubles and 57 RBIs per year over the 2008-09 seasons.
Re: Articles
3253Tribe Seeking Yet More Utility Infielders, Report Says:
As we count down the final days before pitchers and catchers report to their respective complexes in Florida and Arizona, teams are currently trying to put the finishing touches on their rosters. The Rangers and Indians are two examples of this, as FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal reports that both clubs have interest in free agent infielder Ryan Theriot.
Theriot batted .270/.316/.321 with zero homers, 28 RBI and a .637 OPS for the World Champion Giants last season while playing almost exclusively at second base. The 33-year-old mostly functioned as a backup after the Giants acquired Marco Scutaro from the Rockies in July.
Theriot’s starting days are likely behind him, but he wouldn’t be asked to be anything more than middle infield depth in Texas or Cleveland. It’s worth noting that he was also on the Cardinals in 2011 when they won the World Series, so he may have replaced Eric Hinske as baseball’s human good luck charm.
As we count down the final days before pitchers and catchers report to their respective complexes in Florida and Arizona, teams are currently trying to put the finishing touches on their rosters. The Rangers and Indians are two examples of this, as FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal reports that both clubs have interest in free agent infielder Ryan Theriot.
Theriot batted .270/.316/.321 with zero homers, 28 RBI and a .637 OPS for the World Champion Giants last season while playing almost exclusively at second base. The 33-year-old mostly functioned as a backup after the Giants acquired Marco Scutaro from the Rockies in July.
Theriot’s starting days are likely behind him, but he wouldn’t be asked to be anything more than middle infield depth in Texas or Cleveland. It’s worth noting that he was also on the Cardinals in 2011 when they won the World Series, so he may have replaced Eric Hinske as baseball’s human good luck charm.
Re: Articles
3254Bleacher Report (Over_?)Rates Tribe as 18th Best Team in Baseball (ahead of Royals (#22) and Chisox (#26) and Twins (#29) in the ALC)
18. Cleveland Indians
Hi-res-152729014_display_image
Brian Kersey/Getty Images
Projected Lineup
LF Michael Brantley
2B Jason Kipnis
SS Asdrubal Cabrera
RF Nick Swisher
C Carlos Santana
1B Mark Reynolds
3B Lonnie Chisenhall
CF Drew Stubbs
DH Chris McGuiness [maybe some days, maybe none]
Projected Rotation
RHP Ubaldo Jimenez
RHP Justin Masterson
RHP Brett Myers
RHP Zach McAllister
RHP Trevor Bauer
Closer—RHP Chris Perez
The Cleveland Indians did a lot to help their offense this offseason by signing Reynolds and Swisher.
While losing Shin-Soo Choo does hurt, the Indians' offense is definitely better than a year ago.
The rotation improved with the acquisition of Bauer and the signing of Myers.
Playing in the weakest division in baseball will only help the Indians. Should a few things go their way, they could actually have a good season.
18. Cleveland Indians
Hi-res-152729014_display_image
Brian Kersey/Getty Images
Projected Lineup
LF Michael Brantley
2B Jason Kipnis
SS Asdrubal Cabrera
RF Nick Swisher
C Carlos Santana
1B Mark Reynolds
3B Lonnie Chisenhall
CF Drew Stubbs
DH Chris McGuiness [maybe some days, maybe none]
Projected Rotation
RHP Ubaldo Jimenez
RHP Justin Masterson
RHP Brett Myers
RHP Zach McAllister
RHP Trevor Bauer
Closer—RHP Chris Perez
The Cleveland Indians did a lot to help their offense this offseason by signing Reynolds and Swisher.
While losing Shin-Soo Choo does hurt, the Indians' offense is definitely better than a year ago.
The rotation improved with the acquisition of Bauer and the signing of Myers.
Playing in the weakest division in baseball will only help the Indians. Should a few things go their way, they could actually have a good season.
Re: Articles
3255I wonder if the Indians tried to get Shields. KC traded for him. We could have certainly used him.