The Cleveland Indians have turned into a spring training juggernaut, winning their first five games. Seriously, it’s better than losing these games, but there are always teams who dazzle people in spring training, but stink in the regular season.
However, there are some things that stand out after the first week of exhibition play.
First, new manager Manny Acta is a breath of fresh air. He doesn’t carry the somber, serious tone in talking to the media as his predecessor did. He jokes with the players and keeps the atmosphere loose. He probably will need to drop the hammer before the camp ends, and he definitely will have to during the season, but it’s nice to show that it’s a game that these men are playing.
Second, Grady Sizemore is healthy. Last season, Sizemore was plagued by a nagging groin and elbow problems, and these issues were taken care of in the off-season.
It seems people have forgotten what a tremendous player he is because of last year’s injuries. Remember, this is a guy who had an MVP type season in 2006 at age 23. He’s been the Tribe’s regular centerfielder since 2005, meaning this will be his 6th year as a starter. Yet, he will turn just 28 during the season. He’s a three time all star.
Having him back in the lineup on a regular basis will be a huge help for the Indians.
A third good early sign is the play of Michael Brantley. Apparently, the young outfielder took the news of Russell Branyan’s signing personally, and has decided to make it very difficult for Acta to send him to Columbus next month.
Brantley has reached base in seven of his 16 plate appearances (5 hits and 2 walks), and has yet to strikeout, a skill greatly needed on the 2010 Indians. He also has two extra base hits, which was a concern because he needs to show he can drive the ball. It’s only 16 at bats, but it’s good to see how Brantley responded to a challenge.
The other young Indian to make an early impact with the bat is Wes Hodges, who has been moved to the organization’s most popular position, 1B. This move is merited because Hodges had some problems defensively.
He will most definitely start the year in Columbus, but he’s had six hits in his first 11 at-bats, with three doubles and four runs knocked in.
Remember, pitchers likely aren’t throwing a lot of breaking stuff, so you have to look at hitting stats with a jaundiced eye, but both of these guys are making fans notice early in camp.
KM
Cleveland Sports Perspective 