#cleveland indians

Since the Boston Red Sox won the World Series, the Indians have signed Jason Giambi (Big G) and released disgruntled and ineffective Closer Chris Perez. Both are good moves, as Perez was at best a distraction, at worst as clubhouse cancer, with Giambi providing invaluable clutch hits and leadership. 

But there is more to do. The ineptness of Mark Reynolds must be replaced with a player with legitimate power or a high on-base percentage (though I concede here that Michael Bourn is very likely to have a rebound year). I am not particularly concerned about the Starting Rotation, though I doubt Jimenez will return (and quite frankly, I don’t want to pay the guy $20 mil. a year for one outstanding month of work). Still, if I am the Indians, I extend a qualifying offer to get a high draft pick. And the Bench (aka the Goon Squad is still strong). 

My focus right now is the Bullpen. the Indians need to do do several things: 1) resign Joe Smith (he has said he wants to return), 2) Explore a new deal with Scott Kazmir, who could be used in the bullpen or the rotation (he also indicated a desire to return to the Tribe), 3) Explore a deal with Texas Closer Joe Nathan (a veteran, but probably worth a 2 year deal he wants and won’t get from Texas), and 4) try and resign Shaw 9I prefer Shaw) and Albers (neither are critical because the Indians have depth in the minors but could prove important if the Indians choose to stay inside the organization to fill the Closer’s role…a considerable gamble).

Other thoughts are to find a trading partner for Asdrubal Cabrera (Francisco Lindor is ready for the Show) and perhaps look outside the organization for a long-term solution for 3B (Chisenhall’s development has stalled again). , 

As the Off Season kicks into full gear next week, I will have more suggestions for team improvement.

I think it is a winter of great possibilities for the Tribe!