2012 Transaction Rundown: Final Releases

Yes, Elliott was released in spring training. Simply did not show much with the bat and the defense wasn't what was expected, but the sudden release makes me think there was more to it behind the scenes (though I do not know and merely speculate).

Did we not just draft Elliott last year? Why the early release?

Ok, got confirmation....Elliott and John Barr were recently released.

Interesting Doug...I will see if I can get an updated listing of those players released last week. The Indians do not openly provide such a list unless asked. thx

Several others in extended released last week.

He was released last week

Re: Elliott......not that I am aware of.

Cody Elliot released?

Unfortunately, stats don't mean a whole lot in the minors. Teams want players to perform, but the stats are one of the last things they look at. Too many variables which can make that stats good/bad because of age of player vs. other players (college pitchers pitching in rookie ball is a negative) and because the quality of opponents is not always there. Every team simply looks at the stuff, ability of the player and if it translates as they move up regardless of how they perform. They evaluate their routines, preparation, the command of the fastball, the quality of their secondary stuff, and so on. All of that is considered. Unfortunately, if you don't stand out in those areas, regardless of a player's stats, they will get cut. Only so many spots available, and usually if the guy is a UDFA or a low round pick that got a small bonus, they are the first to go if they are not viewed as a prospect. This is an unfortunate reality that I don't believe a lot of players and families understand....while all of these guys are playing in the minor leagues and part of the organization, only about 50 or so of the 200 minor league players are viewed as legit prospects. The rest are just to fill rosters so they can field teams. Teams will never tell guys they are just filler and will make them all feel important, but behind the scenes they already have those guys identified, which is why I mentioned in an article in the past you can usually "determine value" by how a player is handled.

How can you release a player after one summer (37innings) who posted 11.43 SO/9, 1.24 WHIP, 2.92 ERA, & 3.67 G/F? He has a low 90's fastball with the unusual ability to change speeds with ease". UDFA or not how does this not get you another look during a full season?

Last I saw of Lawson was he was in extended spring training. I have no info that has come in that he has been released or has retired, so he is still out there.

Where is Matt Lawson? I know he was in extended but did not see him on the last depth chart.

Did not see him in camp nor have I seen him on team notes that he was released. Perhaps he never truly signed (failed physical?).

Where's willy lebron?