Healthy Sizemore appears back to his old form
By Jordan Bastian / MLB.com | 04/25/11 1:36 PM ET
CLEVELAND -- Grady Sizemore still feels something in his knee. Describing the sensation is not an easy task for the Indians center fielder. It isn't pain. And he doesn't go as far as to saying it is discomfort.
"It's just part of it," Sizemore says.
Call it a reminder.
A reminder that -- nearly 11 months ago -- Sizemore was having tiny holes drilled into his knee in an effort to save it. A reminder that -- for multiple hours a day in the first two months following surgery -- Sizemore's left leg was inside a continuous passive motion machine, a little torture chamber that bent his knee for him.
The feeling in Sizemore's knee is a reminder of how far he has come.
After he underwent a microfracture procedure last June, no one -- not the Indians, not the surgeon, certainly not Sizemore -- knew for sure how long it would take for the center fielder to return to the field. When Sizemore would eventually return, no one knew for sure if he would resemble the gazelle-like player he was in the past.
Everyone is now starting to wonder why there was ever any doubt.
Sizemore has played in seven games since rejoining the Indians as their leadoff man and center fielder on April 17. Over that short period of time, he has displayed power and patience at the plate, plus speed and prowess in the outfield and on the basepaths.
"We're very excited to see Grady come in and contribute right away," Indians manager Manny Acta said.
But no one -- from Acta to general manager Chris Antonetti to anyone else within the Indians' coaching or medical staff -- wants to declare that Sizemore is back to his All-Star ways. For now, the team is thrilled that Sizemore looks his old self.
Beyond that?
"It's too early to tell," Acta said.
Acta will have to pardon Tribe fans for salivating over the early results.
Through his first 30 plate appearances back in an Indians uniform, Sizemore has hit .357 (10-for-28) with two home runs, four doubles and five RBIs. He has not stolen a base, but Acta has noted that Sizemore has the green light.
In his second at-bat after being activated from the 15-day disabled list, Sizemore sent a 2-0 pitch from Baltimore's Brad Bergesen sailing into the right-field seats for a solo home run at Progressive Field. Sizemore added a two-run blast on Saturday in Minnesota.
For the Indians, the 28-year-old's return had the feel of a major in-season acquisition.
"It's a big boost," Antonetti said. "Grady has demonstrated, when he's healthy, that he's one of the best players in the game. In the short time he's been back, he's certainly provided an additional spark to a team that had already gotten off to a good start. I expect he'll continue to contribute."
It is hard not to miss the qualifier -- "when he's healthy."
Antonetti noted that the Indians have timed the outfielder running from home to first base and the results have been "in the same range" they were prior to the injury. Whether fatigue will set on as the season progresses remains to be seen.
The Indians plan on doing all they can to keep Sizemore healthy and fresh, though. During his first five days back, Sizemore was given a day off from starting after playing two games in a row. A rainout on Friday allowed Acta to rest the center fielder again.
Acta has not revealed a specific plan, but the manager has made it clear that Sizemore will receive scheduled days off throughout the season. Coming back from any operation -- let alone microfracture surgery -- can be difficult, and Acta will be taking measure to help keep Sizemore strong.
"Grady's not going to play every day," Acta said. "He's a tough guy to get out of the lineup when he's healthy, but we're going to have to monitor him anyway and be smart about it, because he's coming back from a tough surgery.
"The last thing we want is to run him into the ground too early."
Running, after all, was the final step in getting Sizemore off the ground.
It was a pair of routine slides on the basepaths -- one into second base on April 1 and another on May 16 -- that did Sizemore in a year ago. The first wreaked havoc on its own, robbing Sizemore of the ability to push off his back leg effectively while swinging. The second ended his season.
After just 33 games played, Sizemore flew to Vail, Colo., where Dr. Richard Steadman prepared to operate on the center fielder's knee. Only after beginning the surgery did Steadman decide to take the route of microfracture -- a technique he devised in the 1980s.
"We didn't know what to expect," Sizemore said. "Going into that surgery, I had no idea really how severe it would be or how my knee would react."
The procedure calls for creating small breaks in the knee as a way to stimulate cartilage growth through the release of stem cells. The surgery also calls for a lengthy rehabilitation process that can toy as much on a person's mind as it does their body.
Indians closer Chris Perez might have put it best.
"You kind of have to start learning how to walk again," said the pitcher.
Sizemore started with the CPM machine and eventually worked his way to crutches. Following months of strengthening and conditioning, Sizemore was permitted to jog lightly -- with timed breaks -- on grass at the onset of Spring Training. After weeks of running and agility work, Sizemore was allowed to move to the bases.
All of this was on an every-other-day basis until the end of camp.
When Sizemore did get the go-ahead to play in games, he was first used as a designated hitter. He didn't play in consecutive games until his recent Minor League rehab stint with Triple-A Columbus. And Sizemore had to wait weeks before being cleared to play full games.
For Sizemore, it was the mental aspect that brought on the most anguish.
"It was such a long time to be away from the game," Sizemore said. "It was a tough rehab, but the time away was the toughest part."
This coming from a player who appeared in at least 158 games in each of the 2005-08 tours with the Tribe, during which Sizemore hit .281 with a .371 on-base percentage, posting an average of 27 home runs, 29 stolen bases, 41 doubles and 81 RBIs per year.
Along the way, Sizemore made three American League All-Star teams, captured a pair of Gold Glove Awards and won a Silver Slugger Award.
Acta is quick to offer another accolade.
"He's the face of this franchise," said the manager.
No one knows for sure given the grueling nature of a baseball season, if Sizemore will be able to continue to play at the elite level Cleveland grew accustomed to in the past.
There's only one thing for certain.
"It's great to have him back," Antonetti said.
Re: Articles
124Grady has been vaguely linked as a possible trade target by the Nationals.
" I am not young enough to know everything."
Re: Articles
125I'm sure a lot of teams would like Grady, if he continues to be healthy. But I think the Indians would be committing PR suicide if they let him go.
Re: Articles
126Fan reaction has little influence on Dolan. Would dealing Grady really be worse than shipping out the reigning Cy Young winner in back to back seasons?
Tribe is going to have to at least get back to a World Series before Dolan gets off most fans cowpie list.
Tribe is going to have to at least get back to a World Series before Dolan gets off most fans cowpie list.
" I am not young enough to know everything."
Re: Articles
127But I don't remember any cheering sections or T-shirts for Lee or CC. Grady's "mug" is all over the place, and he was termed "the face of the franchise" by Acta in that article I posted.
Re: Articles
128nationals had Grady once; they can't have him back, unless they return Bartolo Colon.
No, I don't think that's such a good deal for us.
No, I don't think that's such a good deal for us.
Re: Articles
129JOHN ADAMS DRUMLINE
Legendary Tribe Drummer John Adams is celebrating his milestone 3,000th Indians game on Saturday, April 30 at 6:05pm and YOU are invited to be part of the festivities!
REGISTER below to take part in the John Adams Drumline!
WHEN: Saturday, April 30 - Registration 3:30-4:30pm
WHERE: Progressive Field (Enter through Gate A entrance in left field)
WHO: The Indians fans who register and bring a DRUM
COST: FREE!
WHAT: All drummers who register online and bring a drum will...
Receive two FREE seats in the bleachers for the 4/30 game
Take part in ON-FIELD PREGAME CEREMONY (drummers only, no guests)
Receive a FREE commemorative t-shirt (drummers only)
For the safety of fans and musical instruments alike, drummers must return drums to their vehicles after the pregame ceremony. (Re-enter via Gate A)
HURRY, registration ends on Thursday, April 28 at 5:00pm ET.
Legendary Tribe Drummer John Adams is celebrating his milestone 3,000th Indians game on Saturday, April 30 at 6:05pm and YOU are invited to be part of the festivities!
REGISTER below to take part in the John Adams Drumline!
WHEN: Saturday, April 30 - Registration 3:30-4:30pm
WHERE: Progressive Field (Enter through Gate A entrance in left field)
WHO: The Indians fans who register and bring a DRUM
COST: FREE!
WHAT: All drummers who register online and bring a drum will...
Receive two FREE seats in the bleachers for the 4/30 game
Take part in ON-FIELD PREGAME CEREMONY (drummers only, no guests)
Receive a FREE commemorative t-shirt (drummers only)
For the safety of fans and musical instruments alike, drummers must return drums to their vehicles after the pregame ceremony. (Re-enter via Gate A)
HURRY, registration ends on Thursday, April 28 at 5:00pm ET.
Re: Articles
130Did Kenm make it over here?
Maybe he's just brooding over Manny.
Maybe he's just brooding over Manny.
" I am not young enough to know everything."
Re: Articles
131Bullpen session will determine if Carlos Carrasco starts: Cleveland Indians daily briefing
Published: Tuesday, April 26, 2011, 5:33 PM Updated: Tuesday, April 26, 2011, 5:43 PM
By Paul Hoynes, The Plain Dealer
Game 22, April 26, 2011: Carlos Carrasco had an MRI on Monday on his right elbow.
"I was a little worried," he said.
On Tuesday, Carrasco received good news. The MRI showed no damage to his elbow.
"The MRI was perfect," said Carrasco.
Carrasco played catch at 60 feet before Tuesday night's game. He'll throw a full bullpen session before Wednesday's game. The results of the pen will determine if he makes Saturday's start against Detroit.
"If will depend on how he feels during the bullpen and how he feels afterward," said manager Manny Acta. "We're not going to take any chances with him.
"But if he feels good during the bullpen and throws the ball well, that will be the indication whether he can make his next start."
Carrasco left Sunday's start against the Twins at Target Field after three innings with pain in his right elbow. He had the same injury last year at Class AAA Columbus and missed at least one start.
He's 1-1 with a 4.97 ERA in five starts this year. Carrasco had thrown three quality starts before leaving Sunday's game.
If Carrasco has to go on the disabled list, David Huff could take his place in the rotation. Alex White, the Indians No.1 pick in 2009, is another possibility. They're pitching at Class AAA Columbus.
White is not on the 40-man roster, but he's 1-0 with a 1.90 ERA in four starts. He has 28 strikeouts in 23 2/3 innings. He's walked five and allowed five earned runs and 19 hits. The opposition is hitting .211 against him and he has a WHIP (walks plus hits divided by innings pitched) of 1.01.
"Alex is throwing the ball well at Columbus," said Acta. "We've gotten some reports that his slider is improving. I'm anticipating that he's going to be here at some point to help us. I can't give you an exact date, but with the reports we've gotten, we won't be afraid to bring him up.
"If he has an development to do, it could be continued up here."
Published: Tuesday, April 26, 2011, 5:33 PM Updated: Tuesday, April 26, 2011, 5:43 PM
By Paul Hoynes, The Plain Dealer
Game 22, April 26, 2011: Carlos Carrasco had an MRI on Monday on his right elbow.
"I was a little worried," he said.
On Tuesday, Carrasco received good news. The MRI showed no damage to his elbow.
"The MRI was perfect," said Carrasco.
Carrasco played catch at 60 feet before Tuesday night's game. He'll throw a full bullpen session before Wednesday's game. The results of the pen will determine if he makes Saturday's start against Detroit.
"If will depend on how he feels during the bullpen and how he feels afterward," said manager Manny Acta. "We're not going to take any chances with him.
"But if he feels good during the bullpen and throws the ball well, that will be the indication whether he can make his next start."
Carrasco left Sunday's start against the Twins at Target Field after three innings with pain in his right elbow. He had the same injury last year at Class AAA Columbus and missed at least one start.
He's 1-1 with a 4.97 ERA in five starts this year. Carrasco had thrown three quality starts before leaving Sunday's game.
If Carrasco has to go on the disabled list, David Huff could take his place in the rotation. Alex White, the Indians No.1 pick in 2009, is another possibility. They're pitching at Class AAA Columbus.
White is not on the 40-man roster, but he's 1-0 with a 1.90 ERA in four starts. He has 28 strikeouts in 23 2/3 innings. He's walked five and allowed five earned runs and 19 hits. The opposition is hitting .211 against him and he has a WHIP (walks plus hits divided by innings pitched) of 1.01.
"Alex is throwing the ball well at Columbus," said Acta. "We've gotten some reports that his slider is improving. I'm anticipating that he's going to be here at some point to help us. I can't give you an exact date, but with the reports we've gotten, we won't be afraid to bring him up.
"If he has an development to do, it could be continued up here."
" I am not young enough to know everything."
Re: Articles
132Cleveland Indians fans shouldn't panic yet, Terry Pluto writes
Published: Monday, April 25, 2011, 8:12 PM Updated: Monday, April 25, 2011, 8:23 PM
By Terry Pluto, The Plain Dealer
Sure, there have been some bobbles with the Tribe lately, including this one by Orlando Cabrera on Saturday in Minnesota, but overall the team is off to a good start and it's too soon for fans to believe all is lost for the Indians.
"Hey Terry, panic time for the Indians? How would you fix the bats (change in the lineup)?"
Dhanvin Desai posted that on my Facebook page.
Several other fans have asked if this is it for the Indians -- the good start is over. Who knows? The three-game losing streak may turn into 30 . . . or at least 10.
I will simply ask this: If anyone had told you the Indians would be 13-8 at this point, would you take it? Not only that, they are 13-8 with Shin-Soo Choo (.207) and Carlos Santana (.200) dragging down the middle of the lineup.
Panic?
Let's think for a moment.
The Indians vaulted to first in the Central Division because of four things:
1. Superb starting pitching.
2. A bullish bullpen.
3. Dependable defense.
4. Timely hitting.
They lost in Kansas City (3-2) Thursday because of the first blown save (and runs allowed) by closer Chris Perez since last August.
They lost Saturday in Minnesota (10-3) because Fausto Carmona had one of those games where it seems as if he had never pitched in the majors before.
Sunday, it was a 4-3 loss in Minnesota when starter Carlos Carrasco left after three innings and an error by second baseman Orlando Cabrera allowed a key run.
Ike Langendorfer emailed: "I hope the blown save by Perez doesn't take us into the dumper. We both have seen this numerous times before."
Ike, yes, we've seen the Indians fall apart. But usually, they told us early in the season that they were in trouble.
Since Eric Wedge was hired in 2004, they have had only three winning Aprils -- 13-12 in 2006, 14-8 in 2007, and whatever they end up this month. In 2006, they were a .500 team. In 2007, they won 96 games.
Most Aprils have been like this: 9-13, 8-14, 13-15, 9-14, 9-13. Those are the records in five of the past seven Aprils. So I don't think Perez blowing a save has sent the Tribe tumbling face-first down a long flight of stairs into the Central Division basement.
That's because other than Carmona's crash on Saturday, the starting pitching keeps rolling along. The bullpen has had a few rough spots lately, but there are enough good arms for it not to collapse.
Justin Masterson (4-0, 1.71 ERA) starts for the Tribe tonight against Kansas City. The next night, it's Josh Tomlin (3-0, 2.33). Friday, it's Carmona, who has allowed 16 earned runs in eight innings covering two starts and only four earned runs total in three other starts.
Three times this season, Masterson has won a game after a Tribe loss.
After being shelled in the first two games of the season, Tribe starters are 10-3 with a 2.80 ERA in the past 19 games. In 15 of those 19 games, the starter has worked at least six innings.
Yes, it would help if the team hit more. Maybe Manager Manny Acta can toy with the lineup, but there are no dramatic changes that can be made right now. My main concern is that Carrasco may have a lingering elbow problem, although the team so far doesn't think that's the case for their young starter.
Tim Vanderkum emailed: "So you think the Tribe is going to win the World Series. Think again Terry . . . It's just that we live in Charlie Brownsville, Cleveland. We keep thinking that SOME DAY we'll win !!! NEVER TO BE!!!"
I know Tim wrote part of this with a smile as he recalls the times when the Indians and Cavs recently came close to titles. But I do think that some fans have trouble enjoying a team because they figure it won't last long . . . and they will be disappointed.
For the record, my preseason pick for the Indians was 74-88. I have never written a word about them going to the postseason, much less the World Series. I have discussed how they have played good baseball and have been fun to watch.
Assuming the Indians keep pitching and catching the ball as they have for most of this month -- I see no reason to change my opinion that this isn't time to panic . . . rather, enjoy a team that plays close games nearly every night.
Published: Monday, April 25, 2011, 8:12 PM Updated: Monday, April 25, 2011, 8:23 PM
By Terry Pluto, The Plain Dealer
Sure, there have been some bobbles with the Tribe lately, including this one by Orlando Cabrera on Saturday in Minnesota, but overall the team is off to a good start and it's too soon for fans to believe all is lost for the Indians.
"Hey Terry, panic time for the Indians? How would you fix the bats (change in the lineup)?"
Dhanvin Desai posted that on my Facebook page.
Several other fans have asked if this is it for the Indians -- the good start is over. Who knows? The three-game losing streak may turn into 30 . . . or at least 10.
I will simply ask this: If anyone had told you the Indians would be 13-8 at this point, would you take it? Not only that, they are 13-8 with Shin-Soo Choo (.207) and Carlos Santana (.200) dragging down the middle of the lineup.
Panic?
Let's think for a moment.
The Indians vaulted to first in the Central Division because of four things:
1. Superb starting pitching.
2. A bullish bullpen.
3. Dependable defense.
4. Timely hitting.
They lost in Kansas City (3-2) Thursday because of the first blown save (and runs allowed) by closer Chris Perez since last August.
They lost Saturday in Minnesota (10-3) because Fausto Carmona had one of those games where it seems as if he had never pitched in the majors before.
Sunday, it was a 4-3 loss in Minnesota when starter Carlos Carrasco left after three innings and an error by second baseman Orlando Cabrera allowed a key run.
Ike Langendorfer emailed: "I hope the blown save by Perez doesn't take us into the dumper. We both have seen this numerous times before."
Ike, yes, we've seen the Indians fall apart. But usually, they told us early in the season that they were in trouble.
Since Eric Wedge was hired in 2004, they have had only three winning Aprils -- 13-12 in 2006, 14-8 in 2007, and whatever they end up this month. In 2006, they were a .500 team. In 2007, they won 96 games.
Most Aprils have been like this: 9-13, 8-14, 13-15, 9-14, 9-13. Those are the records in five of the past seven Aprils. So I don't think Perez blowing a save has sent the Tribe tumbling face-first down a long flight of stairs into the Central Division basement.
That's because other than Carmona's crash on Saturday, the starting pitching keeps rolling along. The bullpen has had a few rough spots lately, but there are enough good arms for it not to collapse.
Justin Masterson (4-0, 1.71 ERA) starts for the Tribe tonight against Kansas City. The next night, it's Josh Tomlin (3-0, 2.33). Friday, it's Carmona, who has allowed 16 earned runs in eight innings covering two starts and only four earned runs total in three other starts.
Three times this season, Masterson has won a game after a Tribe loss.
After being shelled in the first two games of the season, Tribe starters are 10-3 with a 2.80 ERA in the past 19 games. In 15 of those 19 games, the starter has worked at least six innings.
Yes, it would help if the team hit more. Maybe Manager Manny Acta can toy with the lineup, but there are no dramatic changes that can be made right now. My main concern is that Carrasco may have a lingering elbow problem, although the team so far doesn't think that's the case for their young starter.
Tim Vanderkum emailed: "So you think the Tribe is going to win the World Series. Think again Terry . . . It's just that we live in Charlie Brownsville, Cleveland. We keep thinking that SOME DAY we'll win !!! NEVER TO BE!!!"
I know Tim wrote part of this with a smile as he recalls the times when the Indians and Cavs recently came close to titles. But I do think that some fans have trouble enjoying a team because they figure it won't last long . . . and they will be disappointed.
For the record, my preseason pick for the Indians was 74-88. I have never written a word about them going to the postseason, much less the World Series. I have discussed how they have played good baseball and have been fun to watch.
Assuming the Indians keep pitching and catching the ball as they have for most of this month -- I see no reason to change my opinion that this isn't time to panic . . . rather, enjoy a team that plays close games nearly every night.
Re: Articles
133Indians and Royals are for real
Jon Paul Morosi is a national MLB writer for FOXSports.com. He previously covered baseball for the Detroit Free Press and Seattle Post-Intelligencer. He began his journalism career at the Bay City Times in his native Michigan. Follow him on Twitter.
Updated Apr 27, 2011 4:05 AM ET
CLEVELAND
Jered Weaver can’t lose. Andre Ethier can’t miss. Hanley Ramirez can’t hit a home run. Carl Crawford can’t hit . . . at all.
The Marlins are a traveling no-hitter alert. The White Sox have closophobia (fear of the 27th out). The Red Sox have rejoined the pack after their spectacular face-plant from the starting blocks.
But the most shocking baseball moment of April 2011 came Tuesday, when an intrepid correspondent (OK, me) gassed up his 12-year-old station wagon and traversed the Ohio border, in search of the only series in America pitting a first-place team against its second-place challenger.
Indians vs. Royals, of course.
“I like it,” nodded Cleveland starter Justin Masterson, whose 9-4 triumph over Kansas City gave his team the best record in the American League at 14-8. “Yeah, it’s been a pleasant surprise.
“We’re a young team. We’ve been putting things together. Really, what’s great is it hasn’t been perfect. We haven’t made all the plays. We haven’t been hitting lights out. We haven’t always been pitching great. But we believe we can win ballgames, just like we’ve been doing.”
I should level with you: I don’t think the Indians will win the American League Central. I don’t think the Royals will win the American League Central, either. I picked the Detroit Tigers at the end of spring training. No reason to change now.
And yet, these are two likable teams — particularly the Indians. Both have (mercifully) improved since last year. The Indians averaged 90 losses over the past three seasons. The Royals averaged 97 over the past seven. Fans of each franchise have seen a lot of lousy games. This is their reward, however long it lasts. “It’s good for baseball,” Indians manager Manny Acta said.
In Kansas City, the uptick in optimism was somewhat expected — albeit for a slightly different reason. To scouts, the Royals’ farm system looks like a baseball Rushmore. On Tuesday, manager Ned Yost acknowledged the possibility that some of the organization’s highly touted prospects will begin arriving later this year. Yost didn’t name names, but first baseman Eric Hosmer, 21 years young and raking at Triple A, should debut first among the position players.
In the meantime, how tempting would it be for the Royals to promote prospects in response to major league needs — and not the players’ timetables?
“Can’t do it,” Yost answered quickly. “You’ve got to stick by your plan. You start doing that, you’re asking for trouble. You’ve got to make sure that they’re ready. When the time is right, you naturally do it. Stay with the plan.”
So, the Royals’ early success has been in the vein of, ‘While you wait, here’s some decent baseball.’ The bullpen has acquitted itself well, despite including five rookie relievers. Alex Gordon, the No. 2 overall pick five years ago, is delivering on his promise at last. Veteran outfielders Jeff Francoeur and Melky Cabrera seem to be reviving their careers.
True, the Royals have lost four straight. True, they are probably a year (or two) away. Kansas City fans have to wait, and they know it, but this season could amount to some above-average hold music.
Cleveland is a different case. The organizational progress was harder to decipher at first — but the Indians’ chances of contending this year are a little better.
This may surprise you, but the Indians aren’t a young team. They have one rookie on the roster, reliever Vinnie Pestano. He was last seen inheriting a no-out, bases-loaded jam in Tuesday’s eighth inning — whereupon the Royals’ 4-5-6 went down 1-2-3. So Pestano is a rookie who doesn’t pitch like one.
It was only four years ago that the Indians came within one victory of the World Series. Three regulars remain from that team: Grady Sizemore, Asdrubal Cabrera and Travis Hafner. First-year general manager Chris Antonetti signed veteran infielder Orlando Cabrera in February, apparently because Antonetti is wise to one of my favorite baseball factoids: O.C. has appeared in six of the past seven postseasons — with five different teams. Right fielder Shin-Soo Choo started slowly but nonetheless is a two-way star in his prime.
So experience isn’t an issue for the Indians. Health was — at least until Sizemore returned from microfracture surgery on his left knee. He made his season debut 10 days ago and has looked magnificent, after what amounted to a two-year hiatus. Fans have neglected Progressive Field for the better part of three years, but games there have a different tenor when public address man Bob Tayek can say, in staccato cadence, “NUMBER TWENTY-FOUR … GRADY SIZEMORE.”
“His presence alone brings a lot — just having our franchise player,” Acta said. “The way he stepped out there, like before he was injured, it’s terrific.”
While evidence at the turnstiles remains tepid — Tuesday’s crowd was announced at 9,650 and quite smaller than that — the locals love their Grady. So great is the enthusiasm for Sizemore’s return that his first-inning double to the base of the wall fooled the ballpark pyrotechnician into triggering the fireworks display reserved for home runs.
“Maybe someone had Grady on his fantasy team,” Masterson quipped.
Sizemore doubled again in the fifth — and homered in the eighth for good measure. He’s batting .406. Acta speaks in measured tones about the importance of rest for Sizemore, making clear that the 28-year-old is not yet ready to play every day. Sizemore acknowledges that the knee requires treatment before and after games. He isn’t sure if it will get better or worse as the season goes along.
But it certainly looks like the Indians have their All-Star center fielder back.
“I feel healthy — that’s the biggest thing,” Sizemore said. “I’m still battling back from some stuff. I have some symptoms I’d like to get rid of. But overall, I feel healthy. I feel stronger.
“I couldn’t wait to get back, just to be part of what the guys were doing. It’s good to be part of a team that’s winning and having fun and playing good baseball.”
And the crowds? When will they come back?
“I don’t know,” Sizemore said. “Hopefully, we keep playing like we are. . . . They’re coming. They’re coming around. We just want to keep going.”
On their best days, the ’11 Indians look like the ’10 San Diego Padres — an unspectacular-yet-functional rotation, supported by an excellent bullpen and veteran players who defend well.
Those Padres didn’t make the playoffs. But they came close. More than anything, they were entertaining and relevant. Right now, that sounds like success in Cleveland and Kansas City.
Jon Paul Morosi is a national MLB writer for FOXSports.com. He previously covered baseball for the Detroit Free Press and Seattle Post-Intelligencer. He began his journalism career at the Bay City Times in his native Michigan. Follow him on Twitter.
Updated Apr 27, 2011 4:05 AM ET
CLEVELAND
Jered Weaver can’t lose. Andre Ethier can’t miss. Hanley Ramirez can’t hit a home run. Carl Crawford can’t hit . . . at all.
The Marlins are a traveling no-hitter alert. The White Sox have closophobia (fear of the 27th out). The Red Sox have rejoined the pack after their spectacular face-plant from the starting blocks.
But the most shocking baseball moment of April 2011 came Tuesday, when an intrepid correspondent (OK, me) gassed up his 12-year-old station wagon and traversed the Ohio border, in search of the only series in America pitting a first-place team against its second-place challenger.
Indians vs. Royals, of course.
“I like it,” nodded Cleveland starter Justin Masterson, whose 9-4 triumph over Kansas City gave his team the best record in the American League at 14-8. “Yeah, it’s been a pleasant surprise.
“We’re a young team. We’ve been putting things together. Really, what’s great is it hasn’t been perfect. We haven’t made all the plays. We haven’t been hitting lights out. We haven’t always been pitching great. But we believe we can win ballgames, just like we’ve been doing.”
I should level with you: I don’t think the Indians will win the American League Central. I don’t think the Royals will win the American League Central, either. I picked the Detroit Tigers at the end of spring training. No reason to change now.
And yet, these are two likable teams — particularly the Indians. Both have (mercifully) improved since last year. The Indians averaged 90 losses over the past three seasons. The Royals averaged 97 over the past seven. Fans of each franchise have seen a lot of lousy games. This is their reward, however long it lasts. “It’s good for baseball,” Indians manager Manny Acta said.
In Kansas City, the uptick in optimism was somewhat expected — albeit for a slightly different reason. To scouts, the Royals’ farm system looks like a baseball Rushmore. On Tuesday, manager Ned Yost acknowledged the possibility that some of the organization’s highly touted prospects will begin arriving later this year. Yost didn’t name names, but first baseman Eric Hosmer, 21 years young and raking at Triple A, should debut first among the position players.
In the meantime, how tempting would it be for the Royals to promote prospects in response to major league needs — and not the players’ timetables?
“Can’t do it,” Yost answered quickly. “You’ve got to stick by your plan. You start doing that, you’re asking for trouble. You’ve got to make sure that they’re ready. When the time is right, you naturally do it. Stay with the plan.”
So, the Royals’ early success has been in the vein of, ‘While you wait, here’s some decent baseball.’ The bullpen has acquitted itself well, despite including five rookie relievers. Alex Gordon, the No. 2 overall pick five years ago, is delivering on his promise at last. Veteran outfielders Jeff Francoeur and Melky Cabrera seem to be reviving their careers.
True, the Royals have lost four straight. True, they are probably a year (or two) away. Kansas City fans have to wait, and they know it, but this season could amount to some above-average hold music.
Cleveland is a different case. The organizational progress was harder to decipher at first — but the Indians’ chances of contending this year are a little better.
This may surprise you, but the Indians aren’t a young team. They have one rookie on the roster, reliever Vinnie Pestano. He was last seen inheriting a no-out, bases-loaded jam in Tuesday’s eighth inning — whereupon the Royals’ 4-5-6 went down 1-2-3. So Pestano is a rookie who doesn’t pitch like one.
It was only four years ago that the Indians came within one victory of the World Series. Three regulars remain from that team: Grady Sizemore, Asdrubal Cabrera and Travis Hafner. First-year general manager Chris Antonetti signed veteran infielder Orlando Cabrera in February, apparently because Antonetti is wise to one of my favorite baseball factoids: O.C. has appeared in six of the past seven postseasons — with five different teams. Right fielder Shin-Soo Choo started slowly but nonetheless is a two-way star in his prime.
So experience isn’t an issue for the Indians. Health was — at least until Sizemore returned from microfracture surgery on his left knee. He made his season debut 10 days ago and has looked magnificent, after what amounted to a two-year hiatus. Fans have neglected Progressive Field for the better part of three years, but games there have a different tenor when public address man Bob Tayek can say, in staccato cadence, “NUMBER TWENTY-FOUR … GRADY SIZEMORE.”
“His presence alone brings a lot — just having our franchise player,” Acta said. “The way he stepped out there, like before he was injured, it’s terrific.”
While evidence at the turnstiles remains tepid — Tuesday’s crowd was announced at 9,650 and quite smaller than that — the locals love their Grady. So great is the enthusiasm for Sizemore’s return that his first-inning double to the base of the wall fooled the ballpark pyrotechnician into triggering the fireworks display reserved for home runs.
“Maybe someone had Grady on his fantasy team,” Masterson quipped.
Sizemore doubled again in the fifth — and homered in the eighth for good measure. He’s batting .406. Acta speaks in measured tones about the importance of rest for Sizemore, making clear that the 28-year-old is not yet ready to play every day. Sizemore acknowledges that the knee requires treatment before and after games. He isn’t sure if it will get better or worse as the season goes along.
But it certainly looks like the Indians have their All-Star center fielder back.
“I feel healthy — that’s the biggest thing,” Sizemore said. “I’m still battling back from some stuff. I have some symptoms I’d like to get rid of. But overall, I feel healthy. I feel stronger.
“I couldn’t wait to get back, just to be part of what the guys were doing. It’s good to be part of a team that’s winning and having fun and playing good baseball.”
And the crowds? When will they come back?
“I don’t know,” Sizemore said. “Hopefully, we keep playing like we are. . . . They’re coming. They’re coming around. We just want to keep going.”
On their best days, the ’11 Indians look like the ’10 San Diego Padres — an unspectacular-yet-functional rotation, supported by an excellent bullpen and veteran players who defend well.
Those Padres didn’t make the playoffs. But they came close. More than anything, they were entertaining and relevant. Right now, that sounds like success in Cleveland and Kansas City.
" I am not young enough to know everything."
Re: Articles
134Indians, Royals turning heads early
Both clubs contending in AL Central as first month wraps up
By Anthony Castrovince | MLB.com Columnist | Archive
04/26/11 10:14 PM ET
CLEVELAND -- It was a picturesque, 75-degree day in downtown Cleveland on Tuesday, but the threat of incoming rain was persistent. The would-be weathermen at Progressive Field speculated that the Indians and Royals would avoid the rain on this night, but would likely get hammered by it Wednesday.
So it is, in a literal sense, with April weather in these parts. And so it is, in a figurative sense, when a couple of small-market teams surprise the baseball world in the season's nascent weeks. The Tribe and Royals are two of the game's great feel-good stories in the early going, but many watching them wonder when the storms will hit.
As was the case at Kauffman Stadium last week, these two clubs find themselves staging an unlikely battle for first place in the American League Central. Notably, the series opener was attended by representatives from multiple national media outlets. Their course was clear: Tribe-Royals. Get 'em while they're relevant.
"It's good for both cities and fan bases," Indians manager Manny Acta said of that early relevance. "Despite how early it is, we're happy about it."
On this night, the rain held off, and Acta's Indians strengthened their grip on the Central's top spot by belting five homers and snapping a three-game slide in a 9-4 victory. The Royals, meanwhile, extended what is now a four-game losing streak that some are portending to be their rendezvous with reality.
Undoubtedly -- and as the K.C.'s current skid shows -- the ride for the Indians (14-8) and Royals (12-11) won't remain as smooth all summer as it was in the season's first three weeks. At the same time, though, it's no stretch to say the early play on both sides has certainly contained elements that are factual, not fantasy. The Indians have been aggressive in the strike zone, the Royals aggressive on the basepaths. Both have turned in a defensive effort that is drastically improved over what we saw in 2010, and it's made a major impact.
"I told these kids all along, and I'm sure Manny's told his kids, 'Don't listen to what people say outside,'" Royals manager Ned Yost said. "People get a little too wrapped up in the paper side of it."
That's a common complaint. Not to mention a valid one. But predictions are often built on valid rationale, too.
What is ultimately unpredictable is youth, and the Royals and Indians both possess plenty of it. In fact, the Royals have the lowest average age in MLB, at 26.7, while the Indians are tied with the Marlins for second-lowest, at 27.8. It is never easy to forecast when tenderfoot talent will reach its potential, nor is it safe to assume that the inconsistencies of youth won't be revealed over the course of 162 games.
So while the Indians are riding the high of the splendid early showings from Josh Tomlin and Carlos Carrasco (whose clean MRI after a Sunday start shortened by elbow trouble was a major bullet dodged), among others, in the rotation, and the Royals aren't getting burned by the presence of five rookies in the bullpen, neither club would be shocked to see some regression in those areas.
It is also too soon to tell if the early results from the veterans are mere mirages.
For the Indians, Travis Hafner has looked a great deal more like the Pronk of old than the sore-shouldered version of 2008, '09 and '10, and Orlando Cabrera and Jack Hannahan have stabilized the infield defense while adding some unanticipated bonuses to the offensive production. For the Royals, Bruce Chen and Jeff Francis have offset the general unreliability provided by Luke Hochevar and Kyle Davies, while Jeff Francoeur and Melky Cabrera have made an immediate impact on both sides of the ball.
But while the kids could waver and the vets could fade, there are core pieces in play here that can't be overlooked.
You see it in the way Justin Masterson maintains his delivery and further rewards the Indians' patience with him; in the way Billy Butler steadily produces in the middle of a Royals' offense that been one of the most effective in the league; in the way Shin-Soo Choo, Michael Brantley and a newly healthy Grady Sizemore form one of the game's more athletic, dynamic outfields; in the way Alex Gordon finally comes into his own with a new plate approach; in the way Asdrubal Cabrera and Alcides Escobar both play like All-Star shortstops in the making.
And you also note that the Tribe and Royals each possess that coveted commodity that is a reliable ninth-inning arm, with Chris Perez and Joakim Soria both locked up through at least 2013.
Maybe some of the above pieces will eventually be moving ones, but the building blocks are here, and more help is on the horizon. By year's end, the Indians should have Alex White impacting their rotation (with another recent No. 1 Draft pick, Drew Pomeranz, not far behind), and the Royals should have two promising prospects, Mike Moustakas and Eric Hosmer, anchoring their corner infield.
Add this up, and consider the age issues that could catch up (and, in some cases, already are catching up) with the division's big dogs, and it's not impossible to imagine the Royals and Indians maintaining a steady presence atop the Central standings in the not-too-distant future.
But what matters most, of course, is the here and now. And with their early play, the Indians and Royals have made their present a lot more relevant than most imagined.
It's up to them, not Mother Nature, to determine how long the rain holds off.
Both clubs contending in AL Central as first month wraps up
By Anthony Castrovince | MLB.com Columnist | Archive
04/26/11 10:14 PM ET
CLEVELAND -- It was a picturesque, 75-degree day in downtown Cleveland on Tuesday, but the threat of incoming rain was persistent. The would-be weathermen at Progressive Field speculated that the Indians and Royals would avoid the rain on this night, but would likely get hammered by it Wednesday.
So it is, in a literal sense, with April weather in these parts. And so it is, in a figurative sense, when a couple of small-market teams surprise the baseball world in the season's nascent weeks. The Tribe and Royals are two of the game's great feel-good stories in the early going, but many watching them wonder when the storms will hit.
As was the case at Kauffman Stadium last week, these two clubs find themselves staging an unlikely battle for first place in the American League Central. Notably, the series opener was attended by representatives from multiple national media outlets. Their course was clear: Tribe-Royals. Get 'em while they're relevant.
"It's good for both cities and fan bases," Indians manager Manny Acta said of that early relevance. "Despite how early it is, we're happy about it."
On this night, the rain held off, and Acta's Indians strengthened their grip on the Central's top spot by belting five homers and snapping a three-game slide in a 9-4 victory. The Royals, meanwhile, extended what is now a four-game losing streak that some are portending to be their rendezvous with reality.
Undoubtedly -- and as the K.C.'s current skid shows -- the ride for the Indians (14-8) and Royals (12-11) won't remain as smooth all summer as it was in the season's first three weeks. At the same time, though, it's no stretch to say the early play on both sides has certainly contained elements that are factual, not fantasy. The Indians have been aggressive in the strike zone, the Royals aggressive on the basepaths. Both have turned in a defensive effort that is drastically improved over what we saw in 2010, and it's made a major impact.
"I told these kids all along, and I'm sure Manny's told his kids, 'Don't listen to what people say outside,'" Royals manager Ned Yost said. "People get a little too wrapped up in the paper side of it."
That's a common complaint. Not to mention a valid one. But predictions are often built on valid rationale, too.
What is ultimately unpredictable is youth, and the Royals and Indians both possess plenty of it. In fact, the Royals have the lowest average age in MLB, at 26.7, while the Indians are tied with the Marlins for second-lowest, at 27.8. It is never easy to forecast when tenderfoot talent will reach its potential, nor is it safe to assume that the inconsistencies of youth won't be revealed over the course of 162 games.
So while the Indians are riding the high of the splendid early showings from Josh Tomlin and Carlos Carrasco (whose clean MRI after a Sunday start shortened by elbow trouble was a major bullet dodged), among others, in the rotation, and the Royals aren't getting burned by the presence of five rookies in the bullpen, neither club would be shocked to see some regression in those areas.
It is also too soon to tell if the early results from the veterans are mere mirages.
For the Indians, Travis Hafner has looked a great deal more like the Pronk of old than the sore-shouldered version of 2008, '09 and '10, and Orlando Cabrera and Jack Hannahan have stabilized the infield defense while adding some unanticipated bonuses to the offensive production. For the Royals, Bruce Chen and Jeff Francis have offset the general unreliability provided by Luke Hochevar and Kyle Davies, while Jeff Francoeur and Melky Cabrera have made an immediate impact on both sides of the ball.
But while the kids could waver and the vets could fade, there are core pieces in play here that can't be overlooked.
You see it in the way Justin Masterson maintains his delivery and further rewards the Indians' patience with him; in the way Billy Butler steadily produces in the middle of a Royals' offense that been one of the most effective in the league; in the way Shin-Soo Choo, Michael Brantley and a newly healthy Grady Sizemore form one of the game's more athletic, dynamic outfields; in the way Alex Gordon finally comes into his own with a new plate approach; in the way Asdrubal Cabrera and Alcides Escobar both play like All-Star shortstops in the making.
And you also note that the Tribe and Royals each possess that coveted commodity that is a reliable ninth-inning arm, with Chris Perez and Joakim Soria both locked up through at least 2013.
Maybe some of the above pieces will eventually be moving ones, but the building blocks are here, and more help is on the horizon. By year's end, the Indians should have Alex White impacting their rotation (with another recent No. 1 Draft pick, Drew Pomeranz, not far behind), and the Royals should have two promising prospects, Mike Moustakas and Eric Hosmer, anchoring their corner infield.
Add this up, and consider the age issues that could catch up (and, in some cases, already are catching up) with the division's big dogs, and it's not impossible to imagine the Royals and Indians maintaining a steady presence atop the Central standings in the not-too-distant future.
But what matters most, of course, is the here and now. And with their early play, the Indians and Royals have made their present a lot more relevant than most imagined.
It's up to them, not Mother Nature, to determine how long the rain holds off.
" I am not young enough to know everything."
Re: Articles
135Cleveland Indians outfielder Grady Sizemore making beautiful noise at top of the lineup: Indians Insider
By Paul Hoynes, The Plain Dealer
When a hitter is hot, his bat makes a certain sound when it hits a baseball. Grady Sizemore is hot and, as bench coach Tim Tolman said, "His bat is making that magic sound."
Sizemore is hitting .406 (13-for-32) with six doubles, three homers and seven RBI. He joined the Indians on April 17, homered in his second at-bat, doubled in his third and hasn't stopped hitting since.
In the Indians' 9-4 victory over the Royals on Tuesday, he opened the game with a double, the 200th of his career. He doubled again in the fifth and hit a two-run homer in the eighth.
Sizemore has nine extra-base hits in 32 at-bats. He had eight extra-base hits in 128 at-bats last year before his season ended May 16 when he reinjured his left knee sliding back into first base. The injury required microfracture surgery on June 4.
He is the only player in Indians history to have at least 200 doubles, 100 homers and 100 stolen bases.
"I'm pleasantly surprised by the way Grady has come out of the gate swinging the bat," said manager Manny Acta before the game. "He proved to us that he was hurt at the beginning of the season last year because he wasn't able to swing the bat this way.
"We knew that he got hurt at the end of spring training. He couldn't put that much weight on the back of his leg [when he was hitting], and it showed. . . . The sound of the ball coming off his bat . . . it's there."
The Indians will continue to limit the number of games Sizemore plays in a row. They will continue to do that, Acta said, for the next two or three weeks.
Sizemore fooled Acta. He thought he would need more at-bats before he was ready to join the Indians. In fact, he figured Sizemore would probably be joining the Indians right about now.
"He worked very hard," said Acta. "After our first homestand, when we went on the road he told me, 'I'll
see you when you get back. And we did.' "
Acta has been pleased with the way Sizemore has played center field. He pointed to last week's four-game series in Kansas City featuring equal parts, cold, wind and rain.
"That was a full-out series," said Acta. "He was tested pretty good. He played on a wet field, he dove and made a catch, knocked a ball down. He's had a pretty good test and passed with flying colors."
Testing, testing: The results of Carlos Carrasco's MRI exam on his right elbow on Monday came back clean on Tuesday.
"The MRI was perfect," said Carrasco.
If all goes well in Wednesday's bullpen session, Carrasco should be able to make his next scheduled start Saturday against the Tigers. If not, Carrasco will be placed on the disabled list and the Indians will make a call to Class AAA Columbus for a replacement.
Carrasco, who left Sunday's start against the Twins after three innings, played catch at 60 feet Tuesday.
"It will depend on how he feels during the bullpen and how he feels afterward," said Acta. "We're not going to take any chances with him.
"But if he feels good during the bullpen and throws the ball well, that will be the indication whether he can make his next start."
Carrasco is 1-1 with a 4.97 ERA in five starts. Carrasco had thrown three quality starts before Sunday.
If Carrasco has to go on the disabled list, David Huff could take his place in the rotation. Alex White, the Indians' No. 1 pick in 2009, is another possibility. They are pitching at Class AAA Columbus.
White is not on the 40-man roster, but he is 1-0 with a 1.90 ERA in four starts. He has 28 strikeouts in 23 innings. He has walked five and allowed five earned runs and 19 hits. The opposition is hitting .211 against him and he has a WHIP (walks plus hits divided by innings pitched) of 1.01.
"Alex is throwing the ball well at Columbus," said Acta. "We've gotten some reports that his slider is improving. I'm anticipating that he's going to be here at some point to help us. I can't give you an exact date, but with the reports we've gotten, we won't be afraid to bring him up.
"If he has any development to do, it could be continued up here."
Finally: The Indians entered Tuesday's game with a seven-game home winning streak. . . . The Indians have won two games in which they have had five or fewer hits. They did not win a game last year when they had five or fewer hits. . . . Jason Donald, rehabbing a groin injury, is at Class AA Akron.
By Paul Hoynes, The Plain Dealer
When a hitter is hot, his bat makes a certain sound when it hits a baseball. Grady Sizemore is hot and, as bench coach Tim Tolman said, "His bat is making that magic sound."
Sizemore is hitting .406 (13-for-32) with six doubles, three homers and seven RBI. He joined the Indians on April 17, homered in his second at-bat, doubled in his third and hasn't stopped hitting since.
In the Indians' 9-4 victory over the Royals on Tuesday, he opened the game with a double, the 200th of his career. He doubled again in the fifth and hit a two-run homer in the eighth.
Sizemore has nine extra-base hits in 32 at-bats. He had eight extra-base hits in 128 at-bats last year before his season ended May 16 when he reinjured his left knee sliding back into first base. The injury required microfracture surgery on June 4.
He is the only player in Indians history to have at least 200 doubles, 100 homers and 100 stolen bases.
"I'm pleasantly surprised by the way Grady has come out of the gate swinging the bat," said manager Manny Acta before the game. "He proved to us that he was hurt at the beginning of the season last year because he wasn't able to swing the bat this way.
"We knew that he got hurt at the end of spring training. He couldn't put that much weight on the back of his leg [when he was hitting], and it showed. . . . The sound of the ball coming off his bat . . . it's there."
The Indians will continue to limit the number of games Sizemore plays in a row. They will continue to do that, Acta said, for the next two or three weeks.
Sizemore fooled Acta. He thought he would need more at-bats before he was ready to join the Indians. In fact, he figured Sizemore would probably be joining the Indians right about now.
"He worked very hard," said Acta. "After our first homestand, when we went on the road he told me, 'I'll
see you when you get back. And we did.' "
Acta has been pleased with the way Sizemore has played center field. He pointed to last week's four-game series in Kansas City featuring equal parts, cold, wind and rain.
"That was a full-out series," said Acta. "He was tested pretty good. He played on a wet field, he dove and made a catch, knocked a ball down. He's had a pretty good test and passed with flying colors."
Testing, testing: The results of Carlos Carrasco's MRI exam on his right elbow on Monday came back clean on Tuesday.
"The MRI was perfect," said Carrasco.
If all goes well in Wednesday's bullpen session, Carrasco should be able to make his next scheduled start Saturday against the Tigers. If not, Carrasco will be placed on the disabled list and the Indians will make a call to Class AAA Columbus for a replacement.
Carrasco, who left Sunday's start against the Twins after three innings, played catch at 60 feet Tuesday.
"It will depend on how he feels during the bullpen and how he feels afterward," said Acta. "We're not going to take any chances with him.
"But if he feels good during the bullpen and throws the ball well, that will be the indication whether he can make his next start."
Carrasco is 1-1 with a 4.97 ERA in five starts. Carrasco had thrown three quality starts before Sunday.
If Carrasco has to go on the disabled list, David Huff could take his place in the rotation. Alex White, the Indians' No. 1 pick in 2009, is another possibility. They are pitching at Class AAA Columbus.
White is not on the 40-man roster, but he is 1-0 with a 1.90 ERA in four starts. He has 28 strikeouts in 23 innings. He has walked five and allowed five earned runs and 19 hits. The opposition is hitting .211 against him and he has a WHIP (walks plus hits divided by innings pitched) of 1.01.
"Alex is throwing the ball well at Columbus," said Acta. "We've gotten some reports that his slider is improving. I'm anticipating that he's going to be here at some point to help us. I can't give you an exact date, but with the reports we've gotten, we won't be afraid to bring him up.
"If he has any development to do, it could be continued up here."
Finally: The Indians entered Tuesday's game with a seven-game home winning streak. . . . The Indians have won two games in which they have had five or fewer hits. They did not win a game last year when they had five or fewer hits. . . . Jason Donald, rehabbing a groin injury, is at Class AA Akron.