When news came down that the San Diego Padres had virtually given away 2B Mark Loretta to Boston for back up catcher Doug Mirabelli, I know the money the Pads had saved in that deal would go to Trevor Hoffman, and the Indians would not get the ace reliever. However, it was much earlier that I was hoping Hoffman would not be heading to Jacobs Field for the 2006 season.
The reason is Cleveland’s guarantee of a third year on the contract. Hoffman is 38 years old and the thought of paying $7 million for a 41 year old closer is scary. Getting back Bob Wickman on a one year deal at less money is a better alternative. I know, I know, the ninth inning with Wickie is an adventure, but if the veteran isn’t effective, he will not be back in 2007, nor will the Tribe be paying him.
The biggest reason I like the signing of Paul Byrd is that it is only guaranteed for two years. The dollars were a little high, but after the contracts given to Esteban Loaiza by the A’s, and A.J. Burnett by the Blue Jays that is the going rate. Fans do not want to hear this, but inking Byrd for two years is better than giving Kevin Millwood four or five years. Teams like the Tribe can’t afford to lose payroll flexibility, especially in the pitching staff.
This is the time ballclubs can start looking for bargains, after the teams throw incredible amounts of cash at the "premier" free agents. Teams like the Indians will be able to find players who may out produce the Burnett’s and Hoffman’s of the world at less than half the price.
Cleveland will look to add a right handed set up man to share the eighth inning with Arthur Rhodes would solidify the bullpen, and allow the team to work Fernando Cabrera into the set up/closer role slowly. I’m still not convinced David Riske will be back with the club in 2006.
I’m also sure GM Mark Shapiro is not done looking for another starting pitcher. Perhaps Scott Elarton will return as the fifth starter. Maybe a trade is in the offing. But, do not believe for a minute that this team will go into spring training with Jason Davis, Jeremy Sowers, or Fausto Carmona as the only candidates for the last spot in the rotation.
Shapiro also needs a bat, preferably right handed. While Nomar Garciaparra’s name has been mentioned, with the acquisition of Brad Wilkerson, Texas may now be interested in moving Kevin Mench. There are also platoon guys like Matt LeCroy, who spent 2005 with the Twins, and Jeff DaVanon, just designated for assignment by the Angels, who annihilate left handed pitching and are available.
Remember that the Indians have a good farm system with a plethora of mid range prospects and could include some in a trade. Guys such as Davis, Brandon Phillips, or Jason Cooper could be key components for a team looking to rebuild their system.
By no means is this team ready to open the regular season. More moves are coming, because Shapiro and the ownership know this team and this city are ready to win again.
MW
Cleveland Sports Perspective 