MLB Hot Stove

[homerawayfromhome]

I have to admit I am a disappointed the Tribe was unable to land Edwin Jackson but frankly, I just don't see the Tribe paying over $50 M for a guy who would ideally slot into the 3 spot.

Honestly, I'm starting to think the Tribes best avenue may be to try to make a cpl more shrewd trades. At this point it seems they are focused on landing a name FA. I've mentioned Michael Bourn several times bc of the previous interest by the Tribe, it seems like they may offer him the same money they've reportedly offered to Swisher and Jackson (?).

I've liked Michael Bourn for some time, he would add an interesting element of speed and defense in CF. This past season Bourn's K rate spiked - in wake of his walk yr, IMO he was pressing to try to hit for more power as he entered into FA. Bourn would push Brantley to LF and Stubbs to RF, IF the Tribes interest is legit - I think it is...The Tribe would have a light hitting OF but would add solid defense and athleticism.

Could the Tribe make up for the lack of power from the OF. I think so, first the additions of Reynolds and Stubbs adds HR power to the lineup. Maybe a signing like Delmon Young for LF / DH would make up some of the potential lack of power IF the Tribe signed Bourn.

[GeronimoSon]

....Honestly, I'm starting to think the Tribes best avenue may be to try to make a cpl more shrewd trades.....

Yes. This is part of the reason I've posted so many of these FF Baseball like trades. There just isn't anyone in the FA market that is such a perfect fit that the Indians have to move heaven and earth to get. These guys don't exist in free agency. As I've said several times.. they aren't free and their agents suck.. The signing of a FA is almost always a bad idea where the Indians and the FO should expect diminishing returns and less value for our scarce resources.

Trades are the only means to the end. A FA signing should only happen when an obvious hole exists and a short term solution presents itself. Otherwise, even then, trades should be considered. That said.. how about another one:

Rockies get Justin Masterson, Chris Perez, Frank Herrmann and Matt Albers
Indians get Dexter Fowler, Jhoulys Chacin and Nolan Arenado

A net zero on SP changes. The Rockies get a solid # 3 SP, our closer and two use BP arms while the Indians get a prototypical CF'er, a potential boom/bust SP and a solid corner infield prospect....thoughts...

[Hermie13]

I don't think Swisher puts the Indians into contention in 2013. If the Indians are playing for 2014 or whenever, who knows if Swisher will be as effective of a player in coming years at ages 33+. I understand why the Indians want him, but if they do have more money to play with, perhaps the money is better utilized by trading Asdrubal Cabrera, Chris Perez, and/or Justin Masterson and eating a portion of any players' respective salary to get better prospects if the option is there.

The Indians aren't a contending team in 2013. Long way from it. Spending 12mm on Swisher for a mediocre team next year seems wasteful. I'd like to see the Indians try to get more creative with this money. I'm shocked at how many people believe that the Indians should be playing in the free agent market. The odds are heavily stacked against the Indians from building a competitive team in this manner. It's short-sighted.

I dont think many people are suggesting you build the team thru free agency, but you do need to at least play in the market if you're the Tribe. A's spent money on Cespedes, Crisp, Gomes, etc last year as free agents and it paid off. I think the Tribe could afford to take a risk on a guy like Swisher who's main skill set should age pretty well (OBP). He also can move to 1B and eventually DH as needed. Not a 1B or worse a DH only guy that ages badly (ie, Hafner). Do think trades and building the system should be the main focus of the Tribe but hard to win without spending some in free agency. Even the Rays spent $10M+ on free agents last year.

The A's 2012 season was a low probability event. There's more examples of mediocre-to-average teams signing free agents that don't make the playoffs (or close to it) than teams like the 2012 Oakland A's. The Indians also imitated the Oakland A's with the Moneyball stuff many years ago; they drafted countless of bad, low ceiling college players in early rounds which left the organization in the state that its in now. So, this "Let's try to be the Oakland A's" thing hasn't worked out for the Cleveland Indians.

I think Swisher is a good player that fills a gaping hole in this line-up, but I worry he'll regress into a 1b in coming years. If he turns into a .240/.330/.450 1b in 2014 and beyond, that's no bueno. Frankly, he's not far from those numbers right now. The Indians don't need this guy.

Interesting that Nick Swisher was a Moneyball guy though....

Fair enough but couldn't disagree more on Swisher. Absolutely perfect fit for this club. Don't see how he's close to a .330 OBP right now...

[homerawayfromhome]

I saw an article I think on Bleacher Report that had suggested trades for every team. One that included the Tribe and Rockies was a trade of Justin Masterson and Vinnie Pestano for Michael Cuddyer and Christian Friedrich. I don't like the trade suggestion at all, but I do think the Tribe should consider aggressively pursuing another block buster type deals. Truth is they are probably working a few angles with something in place in case The Tribe misses out on Swisher or maybe even Bourn. I think we could see the Tribe make the rumored 4 yrs / $50 M offer (to Swisher) to Bourn. I don't think the Tribe can afford to sit around and get burned. Personally, I'd be a bit more comfortable with that kind of deal for Bourn instead of Swisher.

[BrianM]

We signed Kazmir. I like the move. Maybe we can get lucky.

[homerawayfromhome]

I was actually getting ready to do a post to discuss the pitching that's on the mkt when I saw the Tribe landed Kazmir. Scott Kazmir is a nice low risk / high reward signing, I'm curious to see the contract details.

Btw, I heard (Hoynes interview @ Cle.com) the Tribe was in on both Joe Saunders and Francisco Liriano. Liriano reportedly signed 2 yrs / $14 M today with the Pirates. The O's reportedly (mlbtraderumors) are working on resigning Saunders. IF that's the case the Pitching mkt seems to be getting really scarce. There are some serviceable arms out there but the mkt is going to be tough on them. Three I think the Tribe could be looking into: Myers, Marcum and Lohse are still one the mkt, of those three I prefer Myers perhaps 2 yrs / $10 M would get it done.

Another thought, the Pirates picked up Liriano today which may take them out of the mkt for Chris Capuano of the Dodgers. At the same time the Pirates are said to be shopping Joel Hanrahan still with the Dodgers and Red Sox both reportedly in him. Supposedly, (mlbtraderumors) both may have interest in Chris Perez - as the Dodgers seek a dominate arm to add to their bullpen collection - reportedly they are turned off by the LHRP on the mkt and want a dominate RH that can be a shut down arm.

[GeronimoSon]

... Scott Kazmir is a nice low risk / high reward signing....

How about that, a lefty SP with a low 90's FB and knowledge to pitch in the big leagues.. good for the Indians.. Welcome to out wigwam, Scott...

[homerawayfromhome]

A the very least Kazmir might be a LOOGY...

[GoTribe028]

A the very least Kazmir might be a LOOGY...

Truth is at the very least he might be depth in spring training. Now I said earlier I wanted the Indians to take a shot on him on a minor league deal, but reality is he might not be any more than 3A fodder from now on. He had one report from Heyman saying he was throwing low 90's again with no mention of breaking pitch quality or control.

And yet this signing is still head and shoulders about Francisco Liriano. I will never, ever understand why anyone is so obsessed with that pile of left handed garbage. He hasn't been quality since he exploded his elbow throwing 75 sliders a game when he was a rookie.

[homerawayfromhome]

Just for clarity, I was suggesting Kazmir could be a fall back as a Loogy, if for some reason they fail to add a primary lefty for the pen. That would of course mean he's for some reason (hopefully - added depth) not an option as a SP.

Liriano was simply intriguing bc he's a power lefty, that said I'm surprised he got what he did. I would have thought he signed much cheaper and on a 1 yr deal. The more I looked at his numbers the worse he seemed...I guess what it really is, is the realization the Tribe needs a lefty arm and he has been effective at times. I think I read somewhere, where someone called him Ubaldo Jimenez left. That should be enough said, but with the utter lack of ready made pitching in this org they almost have to consider taking a few fliers with the hopes that one pans out. Thats what the Kazmir signing is...I like the Kazmir signing bc it's pretty much the same signing on a much lesser scale ($$$). In essence both guys are lottery tickets, btw there were rumors the Tribe had interest in Liriano last yr and Hoynes was suggesting the other day the Tribe was considering him.

At this point I'd like to see the Tribe steer clear of Lohse and Marcum unless its a one yr deal. Brent Myers is looking increasingly good. I guess I shouldn't write off Joe Saunders yet but it seems he may resign with the O's. Others: Harang probably isn't worth the time it took to type this, so moving on; Capauno has been effective the last few yrs and might provide some decent innings if he's on the Tribes shopping list in the days to come.

[homerawayfromhome]

Mlb.com' s Jesse Sanchez says on Twitter that former Cuban players Aledmys Diaz and Dariel Alvarez will have a try out in Mexico on Jan. 5th.

Diaz, 22, turns 23, on Jan. 8th and will not count against teams international signing pool. Diaz, 6'1 185 lbs, is a RH hitting SS with the ability to hit for power and average. Jesse Sanchez also notes Diaz has an above average arm and average speed. Per: Sanchez Diaz is the more MLB ready of the two prospects.

Alvarez, 24, a RH OF can man all three OF spots. Alvarez, 6'2 190 lbs, has impressed MLB scouts with his above average OF arm during league play in Mexico.

The Tribe were rumored to have aggressively bid on S. Korean LHSP Ryu and are shopping aggressively for improvements and depth options for the system. I'd expect to hear the Tribe linked to both of these prospects as the Tribe seeks to add talent and depth throughout the organization.

Here's a link the the original article...
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd ... b&c_id=mlb

Here's a look at Diaz's stats in Cuba...

Year Age AB AVG OBP SLG HR SB
2008 18 32 .281 .313 .281 0 0/1
2009 19 276 .341 .401 .482 5 0/5
2010 21 262 .282 349 .363 3 2/7
2011 22 282 .294 .435 .433 7 1/3

Here's a look at Alvarez's stats in Cuba...

Year Age AB BA OBP SLG HR SB
2007 19 125 .256 .273 .280 0 0/1
2008 20 108 .269 .299 .398 1 1/1
2009 21 271 .269 .350 .365 5 5/13
2010 22 299 .274 .322 .435 11 5/15
2011 23 344 .363 .404 .613 20 2/4

Here's a look at Alvarez's stats in Mexico...

Year Age AB BA OBP SLG HR SB
2012 24 152 .354 .371 .521 2 No Data

[GeronimoSon]

Thanks homer.. pretty good stats for the OF'er.. both would be pretty decent additions to the system. While neither is Yoenis at this point in their development, there's a lot to like..

[GoTribe028]

Thanks homer.. pretty good stats for the OF'er.. both would be pretty decent additions to the system. While neither is Yoenis at this point in their development, there's a lot to like..

Agreed they both have some interesting tools that would be welcome to the system. Would like to see some aggressiveness regarding these 2, but they'll both have a decent market so we will see.

[GoTribe028]

At this point I'd like to see the Tribe steer clear of Lohse and Marcum unless its a one yr deal. Brent Myers is looking increasingly good. I guess I shouldn't write off Joe Saunders yet but it seems he may resign with the O's. Others: Harang probably isn't worth the time it took to type this, so moving on; Capauno has been effective the last few yrs and might provide some decent innings if he's on the Tribes shopping list in the days to come.

Cap, Myers and Marcum in that order. Saunders I do not believe has been linked to the Indians even once, or Myers for that matter.

Hope to see a few additions more for the rotation. Bauer could wait in the wings for a few weeks or couple months if the Indians can deepen the rotation (still may regardless).

[GeronimoSon]

Musings on a snowy Saturday Morning...

-The FA market for also ran and extra arms appears to have started in earnest. Signings of such studly studs as Jeremy Bonderman and Scott Kazmir, not to mention Joe Saunders and Francisco Liriano has to be the acme of the Hot Stove Season!!!!. While Joe Saunders may be the best of the bunch, these guys are clearly not who anyone would pick from an open market vendor selling fruit. Most of these guys have ability.. or had ability. If they can recapture the magic, what a bargain. As it's been stated on more than one occasion, i.e. the lightning in a bottle metaphor.. (btw, imho, the Scott Kazmir signing, even though it's a minor league deal, is a low risk/NO reward signing.. there is nothing vaguely sharp about his slider.. without it, he's Hermie's bromance target, Jeremy Sowers)

-Trades...Sure, some of the most ridiculous trades suggested on various sites are what they are: an over evaluation of the guys you don't want for an under evaluation of the guys you do want.. Hitting the bong, while cute and cuddly, is just a means of saying: I wouldn't have the courage to post idiot trades like that !. No one would ever take me seriously ever again.. Guess what, that's not even remotely close to the truth. The posting can be used to inspire thought, generate a reaction, stir the pot, as it would be. Telling our wigwam that you'd rather blaze up than engage in revelry is a means to protect yourself from thinking outside the box and being wrong (again). Eeeeeggggaaaadd!!. Not a pretty picture, huh?

-and the latest trade suggestion.. with the M's, again:

Mariners get: Justin Masterson, Asdrubal Cabrera, Francisco Lindor, and one or two of Bryan Shaw, Joe Smith or Matt Albers.

Indians get: Franklin Gutierrez, Justin Smoak, James Paxton, Brandon Maurer, Victor Sanchez and one or two of Stefen Romero, Jack Marder, Rich Polythress and Leon Landry.

This would solve the M’s need for an impact bat at a position of need & an unlikely spot, SS, immediately add to a starting rotation of a strong innings eating horse and fill out the pen with at least one primary set up reliever. The addition of the Indians # 1 prospect, Lindor, was shouted down by many of the respondents as it is believed that Lindor is without question the best SS prospect in MiLB not named Profar.

The deal still looks like it could be a good one, but only if the M’s are willing to let go of one of their big three (arguably the lesser) SP candidates they have in their system. The complexity of the trade seems a bit much. There are just too many unknowns, especially about the youngest players in the deal. If the deal was simplified, it might be more easily evaluated

Merry Christmas...

[homerawayfromhome]

GoTribe,

I think we will see the Tribe in on Capuano, the teams seem to have a few common interests. Brett Myers has been an innings-eater in the past w/ the Astros so he could / should be an option. I don't recall seeing any press link the Tribe to him, however it seems like Tony / another IBI writer (?) may have mentioned him in an article. I'd like to see the Tribe pursue him. FWIW, Hoynes said the Tribe was in on Saunders during an interview Thurs. with Cleveland.com's Glenn Moore. Honestly, it doesn't matter, I'm not sure he gets away from the O's and there's several others in on him.

[GoTribe028]

@mlbtraderumors: Diamondbacks To Sign Cody Ross http://t.co/hkVIaGOJ #mlb

Didn't see that one coming.

@JimBowdenESPNxm: Cody Ross and Arizona Diamondbacks have agreed on a 3-year $26 million dollar contract that includes a club option with $1m buyout #Source

[homerawayfromhome]

Geronimo Son,

Christmas time always makes me miss the North Coast, you know the cold, the snow, etc. Seriously, it's my favorite time of the year. There's nothing like it, my 7 yo son sitting at the table singing, "all I want for Christmas is my two front teeth" (he's missing his) in gleeful excitement...

Now on to the Tribe, FA is looking mighty bare, there a number of RHRP in the mkt, a cpl of notable hitters who probably end up signing elsewhere and barely a SP or two worth discussion. The Tribe may actually be able to land a bat almost accidentally. At this point I'd rather see the Tribe land Bourn over Swisher but I'm not sure that either is worth the cost of losing the draft pk, but the competitive balance pk will offset it somewhat and number 5 overall pk and the slot money that comes with it may make it palatable.

Let me revisit my stance on team / roster building for a second. Pitching and more pitching, pitching first, did I mention pitching? My personal philosophy of roster building is to flood the system with pitching something the Tribe lacks on numerous levels. Also, at the same time I believe an org has to build upon a rotation and lineup anchor. I've repeatedly said the Tribe has to think outside the box, be aggressive and creative in FA and trades. Thus far they have, IMO.

On to the trade mkt. I actually think the trade mkt could be the way to go. The Tribe hasn't filled all their needs and neither have ANY of the other teams regardless how deep their actual roster is there's anyways that missing piece, like there's always that one gift that always seems out of reach for some it's something small for others it much larger legitimate needs.

As for the trade discussions, they are in and of themselves a creative mind at work. For some it's boring, useless drivel others live on the next thought - sort of problem solving - on a fans level...Neither in essence is wrong, in fact lets face it life, work, politics, etc can be excessively draining and can systematically leach the life out of you.

[homerawayfromhome]

I'm curious if the Dbax made this move bc of a impending trade OR if they made this signing to make themselves real players in the trade mkt. They could really be benefactors of this in a number of ways and in fact it directly, effects the mkt for Nick Swisher and the Indians.

Btw, an overpay of sorts on Ross, he reportedly had asked for 3 yrs / $25 M.

[GoTribe028]

@JimBowdenESPNxm: Nick Swisher giving serious consideration to 4-year $52mm offer from Indians....preferred LAD,LAA,NYY because of wife acting but not avail

[homerawayfromhome]

I don't doubt Swisher has given serious thought to the Tribes offer, he's mkt could be on the increase with Cody Ross now off the mkt. The Dbax did well in signing Ross even with what may be considered an overpay bc they have a number of options in the trade front with the numerous OF they have. We may now see some other teams jump in on Swisher, but he mkt seems down to two including Michael Bourn. I'm curious if the Tribe will flip that 4 yrs / $52 M offer toward to Bourn to push for some resolution - perhaps landing one or the other. Then again who knows the Tribe could be in on one of these OF from the Dbax...I think we all know they have had extensive talks. Just a note but Kevin Towers 'officially' signed Brandon McCarthy the next day, he traded Trevor Bauer to the Tribe.

[GoTribe028]

@Buster_ESPN: Gordon Edes reports that Joel Hanrahan close to being dealt to Boston. http://t.co/1Ani5tTB

Could be a decent indicator of what the Indians may be able to get for Chris Perez during this offseason if it goes through

[homerawayfromhome]

Go Tribe,

Agreed could indicate the value of Perez but Perez is controllable for 2 yrs, Hanrahan 1 yr and might be a "salary reallocation" by the Pirates too considering their recent dip into the FA pool.

I have heard Morales and / or Aceves were discussed but I'm not sure if that was mere chatter...

[homerawayfromhome]

I think this could mean the Tribe and Dodgers may now match up for Chris Perez even more with Hanrahan off the mkt. A side note mlbtraderumors projects Hanrahan to make $6.9 M in arb, while Perez is projected to make $7.2 M in arb.

[GoTribe028]

I think this could mean the Tribe and Dodgers may now match up for Chris Perez even more with Hanrahan off the mkt. A side note mlbtraderumors projects Hanrahan to make $6.9 M in arb, while Perez is projected to make $7.2 M in arb.

Possible, not sure I beleive the stuff on the Dodgers. Would make some kind of sense if Perez and Capuano were talked about as some of the moving parts of a deal between us and them though.

[GeronimoSon]

Two areas of considerable benefit..

The imminent signing of Hanrahan in Boston will very much define the market for Chris Perez.. If the deal is as they're saying, the Pirates may want to reconsider what they're losing..

..but back to CP.. He may be in for a bit of an eye opening if his value is somehow discounted in light of his running commentary last season. It shouldn't matter in the right situation for him.. and sadly, that's not the case on the North Coast... TBH.. replacing his performance would be a huge risk for the Indians. For that reason alone, it's probably more likely that CP is kept on the squad until he becomes the back of the pen "arm" to look at in late July.. We'll see with him..

Cody Ross to.. Az. The Dbax have about 5 OF'ers... all have some special skills.. J-Up could be traded anywhere now that they've made the move to shore up their SS spot, acquiring DiDi.. or at least that's their story and they're keeping to it..<wink wink> . There may yet be a trade with the Dbax, but it seems less likely in lieu of the market for Cody being 3/$27. J-up is 3/$39, so the market is catching up to J-up.

Swisher has the ultimate decision.. happy wife/happy life or play in Cleveland.. The money won't be the issue...at least, it shouldn't be..

..Nice response & I agree, the essence in both cases are correct and appropriate, homer...

[GoTribe028]

Two areas of considerable benefit..

The imminent signing of Hanrahan in Boston will very much define the market for Chris Perez.. If the deal is as they're saying, the Pirates may want to reconsider what they're losing

Well Heyman and Bowden both reporting that OF Jerry Sands IS in the trade. Right handed bat, massive power, and years of control. Sounds like a pretty solid get for the Pirates considering he's likely not all thats heading to Pittsburg.

[GeronimoSon]

Two areas of considerable benefit..

The imminent signing of Hanrahan in Boston will very much define the market for Chris Perez.. If the deal is as they're saying, the Pirates may want to reconsider what they're losing

Well Heyman and Bowden both reporting that OF Jerry Sands IS in the trade. Right handed bat, massive power, and years of control. Sounds like a pretty solid get for the Pirates considering he's likely not all thats heading to Pittsburg.

it sounds like a helluva nice return. Jerry Sands would look very nice with Chief Wahoo on his sleeve... & it's not unlike Boston to use a prospect they've acquired (and like) in trade with another club.. kind of a tradition with the Sawx..

btw.. the speculation on the value of Hanrahan varies so widely, it's almost humorous to read the next "idea" on the speculated trade result.. Really??? Xander Bogaerts, Bryce Brentz and Bailey for Hanrahan?. throw in Daniel Bard, too?..

[GoTribe028]

Two areas of considerable benefit..

The imminent signing of Hanrahan in Boston will very much define the market for Chris Perez.. If the deal is as they're saying, the Pirates may want to reconsider what they're losing

Well Heyman and Bowden both reporting that OF Jerry Sands IS in the trade. Right handed bat, massive power, and years of control. Sounds like a pretty solid get for the Pirates considering he's likely not all thats heading to Pittsburg.

it sounds like a helluva nice return. Jerry Sands would look very nice with Chief Wahoo on his sleeve... & it's not unlike Boston to use a prospect they've acquired (and like) in trade with another club.. kind of a tradition with the Sawx..

btw.. the speculation on the value of Hanrahan varies so widely, it's almost humorous to read the next "idea" on the speculated trade result.. Really??? Xander Bogaerts, Bryce Brentz and Bailey for Hanrahan?. throw in Daniel Bard, too?..

@JimBowdenESPNxm: Pimental and Sands are both in Hanrahan deal according to Pirates source

[homerawayfromhome]

Pimental and Sands is not a bad return for 1 yr of control.

My next thought, what I are the Pirates going to do with all those OF? It seems like they have excess and could use someone in help fortify their pen. Just saying...kind of off the cuff here I haven't looked mat their roster but seems like they might be a fit for a pen arm or two.

[homerawayfromhome]

Mlbtraderumors...

The Dbax are working to trade an OF maybe with the White Sox (pure speculation)... On the website.

Also, it mentions there are more players moving in the Pirates deal.

[GoTribe028]

@JonHeymanCBS: #pirates will get 4 players in trade that is being finalized. They include sands and pimental. #hanrahan

[homerawayfromhome]

Go Tribe,

Agreed the Tribe and Dodgers may talk something like Capuano for Perez. That's not enough for me, I doubt it would be for the Tribe after seeing the Pirates turn down potentially something similar for their closer as has been speculated / reported in numerous places. That's why I think we could see the Dodgers potentially match up on a deal for Perez that may be a bit bigger. The Tribe is working to provide themselves with a number of options at several positions so I could assume they would also, discuss Dee Gordon once again. Gordon would allow the Tribe more freedom to shop ACab or has been suggested Gordon might be able to move to CF. My point is, the Dodgers might very well be a match but I don't see anything like Perez for Capuano straight up so it will likely have to include some other parts.

[GeronimoSon]

BTW.. here is a Pirate's fan reaction to the pending deal..

..Inexcusably bad deal for Pittsburgh. I try to be level headed about this and generally agree with the approach that this F.O. has taken but how do you get from "the Pirates want a significant return" at noon to this pile of useless crap that serves no purpose whatsoever five hours later? With Marte, Cutch, Tabata, Snider and Presley in the OF and Jones and Sanchez at 1B, there is nowhere to put Sands. He will look really nice in the middle of Indianapolis' lineup though. Way to replace Jeff Clement! Stolmy is now probably the 11th best SP prospect in the organization behind Cole, Taillon, Heredia, Locke, Glasnow, Holmes, McPherson, Kingham, Wilson and Sampson. Whoop-de-freaking-do. If this was the best offer on the table, then you keep Hanrahan and use him to make 2013 better. He's not a superstar but he is useful. Sands and Pimentel are not...

just an fyi on the speculated trade.. you'd think the Pirates front office also went over to this guy's house and kicked his dog...

[GeronimoSon]

We need another Bauer Trade...

..with apologies to Katherine K. Davis & her version of this old Czech Christmas carol....

The Little Drummer Bauer

Come they told me parumpumpumpum
A new star is born parumpumpumpum
Our finest team we bring parumpumpumpum
To lay before the league parumpumpumpum
Rumpumpumpum rumpumpumpum
So to honor him parumpumpumpum
When we come
Little Bauer parumpumpumpum
I am a pitcher too parumpumpumpum
My gift is bringing heat parumpumpumpum
That's hard to hit with ease parumpumpumpum
Rumpumpumpum rumpumpumpum
Shall I pitch for you parumpumpumpum
From the mound
Tito nodded parumpumpumpum

Carlos signed to me parumpumpumpum
I pitched with zest for Him parumpumpumpum
I pitched my best for Him parumpumpumpum
Rumpumpumpum rumpumpumpum
He freely smiled at me parumpumpumpum
Me and my gun

[homerawayfromhome]

I've been looking at the Tribe and a number of teams trying to figure out who matches up with who and how. Nick Swisher complicates things, as he awaits a better deal than the one the Tribe has offered. Swisher is an interesting option for the Tribe and it seems only a matter of time now before a big money club hops into the running for Mr.Garcia.

Here's a few trades I think the Tribe could / should look into...

Cards get...
ACab
Justin Masterson
Lou Marson
Matt Albers

Indians get...
Lance Lynn
Joe Kelly
Oscar Tavares
Matt Adams

Here's a look at a few more ideas...

Dodgers get...
Chris Perez
ACab
Marson

Indians get...
Capuano
Gordon
Zach Lee
Alex Santana

[GeronimoSon]

I've been looking at the Tribe and a number of teams trying to figure out who matches up with who and how. Nick Swisher complicates things, as he awaits a better deal than the one the Tribe has offered. Swisher is an interesting option for the Tribe and it seems only a matter of time now before a big money club hops into the running for Mr.Garcia.

Here's a few trades I think the Tribe could / should look into...

Cards get...
ACab
Justin Masterson
Lou Marson
Matt Albers

Indians get...
Lance Lynn
Joe Kelly
Oscar Tavares
Matt Adams

Here's a look at a few more ideas...

Dodgers get...
Chris Perez
ACab
Marson

Indians get...
Capuano
Gordon
Zach Lee
Alex Santana

As we enter the fifth day of the Swisher Watch, no change in status is apparent.. The "Swish-a-licious" one hasn't come to the conclusion that he's wanted on the north coast and will be tolerated everywhere else.. So, in the interim, trade suggestions continue to fill the rumor pages.. The big Hanrahan trade to Boston, giving them 12 ML BP arms should help their starting staff (which is in dire need of help) but it also implies that the Indians can expect a BIGGER return if they choose to send CPerez west.. When you look at these two trades:

Cardinals Trade: The first trade has the St Louis Cardinals giving up their # 1 prospect, a ML 18 game winner, a ML Ready SP who the Cardinals like a lot (and for good reason) and a blocked slugging 1B.. seems like what the Indians are offering is a bit light. While I'd hate to have to send away a brilliant, young, up and coming star, it seems as if the Cardinals would be more amenable to dealing 2/5ths of a starting pitching staff, a two two superb corner position players if they were to receive the second part of their future double play combination in Francisco Lindor.. Coupling Lindor w/ Kolten Wong would be exactly the kind of move John Mozielak, Cards GM, loves..

Dodger trade suggestion: Just the opposite of the St Louis suggestion was how this trade struck me... In other words, it could be considered a bit "LIGHT" w/r to the return for both Perez and Acab, imho. The Indians may want to aim higher with the Dodgers. As in, replace Capuano with Chad Billingsley in this deal. It couldn't hurt to ask..

[homerawayfromhome]

Another team I tnk the Tribe matches up well with, a team that GeronimoSon has mentioned on several occasions through various trade proposals is the Seattle M's. The Mariners are a team looking for various offensive upgrades and have a few obvious spare parts.

The M's have pitching and a talented minor league system to work with. Here's a few trades I could see the Tribe and Mariners work...

M's get...
ACab
Matt Albers

Indians get...
James Paxton
Brandon Maurer
Brendan Ryan

[homerawayfromhome]

G'son,

I would add Matt Magill to the Dodgers trade. As for the Cards deal I think it's pretty solid but I'd consider adding Wolters for Albers...

I'd like to see the Tribe move on from Swisher he obviously doesn't want to sign here and has made that known. I'd offer the same deal to Swisher and figure out the rest later...

I'm curious if the Tribe has any interest in Justin Smoak. He's a buy low guy maybe simply Matt Albers for Smoak gets a deal done or even Marson and Albers, seems like it wouldn't take much. Smoak is a SH hitter and still fairly young in a hard park to hit in. Le I said he'd be a buy low bat could DH and play 1b.

[Lloyd Christmas]

Mark Feinsand ‏@FeinsandNYDN
BREAKING: Nick Swisher has agreed to a four-year, $56 million deal with the Indians. Vesting $14M option for a 5th year could make it $70M.

[timdav]

Very good news for Tribe fans. The offense looks much better today than in early October...and a lot more right-handed with some power too.

Keep looking for more starting pitching and continue to upgrade our farm system/development, Tribe!

But, thanks, FO...great job so far.

[GeronimoSon]

Another team I tnk the Tribe matches up well with, a team that GeronimoSon has mentioned on several occasions through various trade proposals is the Seattle M's. The Mariners are a team looking for various offensive upgrades and have a few obvious spare parts.

The M's have pitching and a talented minor league system to work with. Here's a few trades I could see the Tribe and Mariners work...

M's get...
ACab
Matt Albers

Indians get...
James Paxton
Brandon Maurer
Brendan Ryan

In this deal.. I'd change Albers for Shaw (a definite step up) and a corresponding move of Victor Sanchez for Brendan Ryan who will never hit...

[GoTribe028]

Glad Swisher proved me wrong and signed after leaving without a deal.

Good work Chris Antonetti and Terry Francona. Now go get me Chris Capuano and Brett Myers and if you're felling frisky see what Chris Perez can bring.

[GeronimoSon]

Mark Feinsand ‏@FeinsandNYDN
BREAKING: Nick Swisher has agreed to a four-year, $56 million deal with the Indians. Vesting $14M option for a 5th year could make it $70M.

So, being wanted wins out over being tolerated?.. Happy wife.. happy life be damned?.. Swish-a-licious returns to his Ohio roots.. The Indians replace Choo, Jason Donald, Tony Sipp and "deal maker" Lars for Trevor Bauer, Drew Stubbs, Bryan Shaw, Matt Albers and Nick Swisher. The Indians had allowed Hafner, Sizemore and FAUSTO to move on thereby significantly reducing payroll coupled with the projected salaries in this four for five roster change, the addition of Mark Reynolds & Blake Wood, the Indians should come out spending about $ 9 MM more than in 2012.. I wonder how this looks on a spreadsheet?..

Any more deals?.. For the Indians to be just a bit more than very interesting this year, they need at least one more Trevor Bauer type deal!!

[BrianM]

Any more deals?.. For the Indians to be just a bit more than very interesting this year, they need at least one more Trevor Bauer type deal!!

Bingo

[homerawayfromhome]

I got to say I'm a little surprised by landing Nick Swisher. I'd love to see them move on Brett Myers and Chris Capuano as GOTribe said. When you consider the Tribe loses their second pk and the pool money associated with it, it stings - but just a bit, because of the addition of the competitive balance pk at the end of round two. In a sense the draft pick is kind of a wash and you never know what you end up with in the draft anyways.

All that said 4 yrs / $56 M and an additional, 5th yr vesting option OR 5 yrs / $70 M seems expensive but hopefully Swisher ages well, stays healthy and remains productive throughout the life of the contract.

At this point as a fan you almost have to expect a few more moves by the Tribe. Hopefully the Tribe follows this deal up by moving one of ACab or CPerez OR both. The Tribe certainly has given themselves a number of options with tremendous bullpen depth and numerous middle infield options.

[homerawayfromhome]

Call me crazy, but I'd still like to see the Tribe add an OF like the Dbax did for depth. Maybe a young bat that could serve as a 4th OF and DH on occasion w/ the potential to move Swisher to 1b in the future. It could also give the Tribe the ability to move Brantley or Stubbs in the future for young SP.

IF the Tribe could add a SP like Myers or even Marcum (on a 1 yr deal) this team could really make the AL Central interesting, IMO.

[Rocky55]

Mark Feinsand ‏@FeinsandNYDN
BREAKING: Nick Swisher has agreed to a four-year, $56 million deal with the Indians. Vesting $14M option for a 5th year could make it $70M.

Good job FO. Really good offseason so far. Would like to add a SP. Include me on the Myers bandwagon.

[homerawayfromhome]

Here's the Swisher deal broke down (per Hoynes)...

'13 $11 M
'14 $15 M
'15 $15 M
'16 $15 M
'17 *$14 M vesting option after 550 AB in '16.*

[indians1]

I again applaud the indians for being aggressive but was the decision smart? \

They overpaid for a 32 year old guy that had a lot of help around him. I think he ends up being really good in terms of leadership and could help next year, but what happens as he gets older. Will he put up similar numbers with a lineup that doesn't give him the help he got from having all those good yankee hitters around him.????

The indians gave up a 2nd round pick. The indians just gave out the richest contract in franchise history to Nick Swisher???

Is that good business. The indians to me are a schizophrenic franchise that doesn't play the game by a certain philosophy.

I hope this signing works out and we get great play from swisher, but at 33 -36 years old, that could be asking alot.