So many of the experts have concluded that the Cleveland Indians’ biggest need is a right handed power hitter. Although it would be nice to have a proven bat behind Travis Hafner and Victor Martinez in the batting order, it doesn’t appear there is one available on the trade market. The best hitter who appears to be available is Tampa Bay 1B/OF Aubrey Huff, and he bats left handed.
However, maybe a leadoff hitter could be the missing piece, and I have a guy in mind who GM Mark Shapiro could probably acquire: Reds’ infielder/outfielder Ryan Freel. Freel is a right handed batter who can play 2B, 3B, and the outfield. He has a lifetime on base percentage of .378, and this year has walked more than he has struck out in over 200 at bats. He is also a base stealer, swiping 28 bases this season and 37 in 2004. He doesn’t have much pop in his bat, but he is only 29 years old and isn’t making a whole lot of cash, an important factor for owner Larry Dolan.
This move would also enable the team to move current lead off hitter Grady Sizemore into the middle of the order. Sizemore’s on base average of under .330 indicates he is not a true table setter, and his rank of second on the team in RBI’s shows he is a run producer. He could drop to fifth or sixth in the order where he will have the opportunity to drive in more runs.
Getting Freel would also allow the team to bench the struggling Casey Blake. Blake was dropped to ninth in the batting order recently, but potential rallies continue to find him. If he is not dealt, Blake could become a utility man filling in at first base, third base, and the outfield.
I would still pursue Huff, as he would be a major upgrade at 1B over current starter Ben Broussard. The pitching has continued to be strong, save for C.C. Sabathia, so the opportunity is still there. The offense has to be improved, and getting a slugger isn’t the only way to go.
MW
Cleveland Sports Perspective 