Building the 2013 Cleveland Indians

[GeronimoSon]

First as much as I like Chris Perez, I just can't see keeping him, what hurts is I don't see getting value back unless its pulling off a deal like Perez for Lucas Duda (Mets) and a prospect like Michael Fulmer or Cesar Puello where the Mets are hungry to solidify their bullpen.
I'm not concerned that Perez will make himself a cancer on this team...but I think teammates are wore thin of his antics. if he was on a winner I think he'd still be his fiery self on the mound and in the mdeia, but hed curve his comments accordingly---remember he's fast approaching a big pay and he knows it. I think he passionately wants to win, wants the support of fans and wants the FO to do its job. That's where I think it's a certainty that he's gone bc he's been outspoken against mgmt and called them out. What he said was true but out of order and that probably punched his tkt out of town.
Perez is a legit weapon as a CL and in his prime with 2 yrs of control, he's still affordable but will see his pay spike the next 2 yrs.
Choo is as good as gone and should bring back at the very least 1 starter and 1 /2 very solid prospects.
Another cpl moving pieces besides (potentially)Masterson and ACab could be Lou Marson and Joe Smith who I think could be add ins in a 2 for 4 type deal.

+1, for the most part, homer..

-From a non-traditional young major leaguer's point of view, CP is easy to like..he states his case.. articulates clearly and cogently.. and is generally as direct as he can be without truly making himself a nuisance. Unlike most of the players on the roster.. he's taken the social media and regular main stream media to task with his perspective and depth.. Does this make him a cancer?. To the Indians FO, yes, it does. To his teammates, not really & any comment about his antics causing issues with his teammates is just speculation, at best, and pure garbage, at worst...

-Mets prospects: Except for Fulmer, the Mets prospects/player you mentioned.. really just don't thrill me. I'd like to see the Indians focus on an SP with Fulmer's kind of upside that is a bit closer to being ML ready, though. "All the Duda day" is an okay ML'er.. one good season.. one not so good. He doesn't have exceptional range, has a good arm, but doesn't really light up the score board. As the 'second piece" to a CP trade (the first being Fulmer), he could be a nice addition, but nothing more than a slightly more athletic Matt LaPorta..

I really don't know much about Puello, so I'll reserve comment..

You are correct, Choo will definitely be traded. Masterson, ACab, Sweet Lou (only if the Indians sign Mike Napoli which is a long shot), Joe Smith and others possibly being traded could happen. Choo showed he can hit lefties at the end of the season which should bolster his trade value.. The off season begins today..

[Hermie13]

Is it no wonder why veteran baseball GM John Hart left the organization just after the Dolan's took over? Think he was smart enough to read the landscape and say, "no frickin' way am I sticking around"?

Oh, Hart was in his early 50's when he left the Indians. He didn't leave to retire. He left to escape.

You're crazy if you think things would be different with Hart still around. His drafts were as bad or worse than under Shapiro and he made some bad and very shortsighted trades in the late 90s that left this team very weakened as an organization.

I do agree though why he left when Dolan came in...he knew he was incapable of building a winner without lots of money and the boost of a new stadium. Went to Texas where their owner was willing to throw $250M at a player...yet he never won anything there. We are talking about the GM that drafted a relief pitcher 2nd overall over Derek Jeter (among others)....yet people only seem to focus on drafting White over Trout and Pom over Sale. We also drafted Kirkeit over Derek Lee, Torri Hunter and Jason Varitek (didn't sign though). Wright over Nomar Garciappara, Paul Konerko, and Jason Varitek again. David Miller over Jason Washburn and Carlos Beltran. Danny freakin Peoples over Jason Marquis, Milton Bradley, and Jimmy Rollins. Tim Drew (hey at least Shap was able to trade him) and Jason Fitzgerald over Rady Wolf. CC...obviously a great pick. 99 had no 1sts...at least Hart and company couldn't screw up there...got 3 MLers in the whole draft (Fernando Cabrera, Jason Davis, and Kyle Denney) who combined for less than 650 ML innings. Corey Smith and Derek Thompson (he and his whopping 18 ML innings) over Adam Wainwright and Kelly Johnson. Dan Denham, Alan Horne, JD Martin, and Mike Conroy (never got out of A-ball) over David Wright and JJ Hardy...

Again, that's 14 first round/sup round draft picks and only 6 of them ever made the big leagues and only 3 of those had any kind of real career at all (Drew, Thompson, and Martin didn't get much experience). Maybe Castro can write another "dream" blog about the run of World Series Titles we would have had if Hart could have gotten even a couple of those guys in here....or if he signed Belle or if he didn't trade away Jeff Kent, Brian Giles, Jeremey Burnitz...or if he did move Wright when he had the chance....

Sorry for this rant, and yes I realize going on about how bad Hart and his teams drafted is way off topic in a how to build the 2013 indians thread...then again, bringing up Hart here at all was off topic. The guy is gone and wasn't this all-mighty great GM so many think he was. He definitely did a lot for this organzation (we'd probably still be in the AL East if not for him and Hargrove) and did some good things early in the 90s to get the Tribe to relevance and for that I will always be greatful. But he really went down hill with moves later in his career and probably cost us at least 1 World Series title...

[ironmike]

Hermie, I'll say it cause it needs to be said, you are a goof.

John Hart and Hank Peters were the two best baseball people this team ever had. Old timers may want to include Hank Greenberg in the mix. You can think up, post, frazzle all you want. Only a goof would think like you do.

You may be a nice person, but when it comes to sports your a goof who refuses to factor reality.

[BrianM]

Whos the guy in your avatar mike?

[timdav]

The Tribe farm system has been allowed to fall a part over the years...the last 3 major trades have been disasters...and the ownership is financially incapable of bidding for star-quality free agents.

And, the losing just keeps on year after year after year.

Under these conditions....only a fool would believe relying on the judgement of the current top FO will produce much better results.

I'd love to hear MS and CA hold a press conference and not sound like we're listening to the Harvard Law Review channel.

"Process", "culture", "moving forward", "transition", etc., etc., etc.! They may not realize it, but they just sound phoney and not genuine. Or, in the vernacular: their choice of words to the average fan sounds like we are being b.s.'d.

My, goodness...this is baseball....not in a board meeting at an international corporation.

[daingean]

The Tribe farm system has been allowed to fall a part over the years...the last 3 major trades have been disasters...and the team's owners are not in a financial position to even think about going after star free agents. This organization signs more free agent stiffs than reside at the typical city morgue. And, the losing just keeps on year after year after year.

Under these conditions....only a fool would believe relying on the judgement of the current top FO will produce much better results.

I'd love to hear MS and CA hold a press conference and not sound like we're listening to the Harvard Law Review channel.

"Process", "culture", "moving forward", "transition", etc., etc., etc.! They may not realize it, but they just sound phoney and not genuine. Or, in the vernacular: their choice of words to the average fan sounds like we are being b.s.'d.

My, goodness...this is baseball....not in a board meeting at an international corporation.

I agree with your assessment but in truth the team's drafts have been poor for way longer than the current administration. In fact, we haven't really put together very good drafts since Mickey White was the scouting director. Now I will give Grant a few years to prove himself (I think the team has changed philosophy there). It does seem like we haven't developed many guys lately but there is hope in A ball (or even AA next year as guys like Aguilar, Wolters, R-Rod all graduate up.) I can't say that I am totally in on the Naquin draft but he's in the system now so I hope he develops.

As for FA's, the Indians have never really been in the market for star FA's (only 2 guys I can think of are Wayne Garland and Robbie Alomar). We have in the past been in on the 2nd tier guys who did pan out like Hershiser, Eddie Murray, Dennis Martinez, Kerry Wood, and all. But yes the Kotchman and Damon acquisitions were terrible but they did get lucky with the Casey Blakes types.

The mid-90's to early 2000's were our best years. The team was constructed some from the draft (Belle, Ramirez, Thome, Nagy) but mostly through trades (Vizquel, Mesa, S. Alomar, Baerga, Lofton, Burba, Fryman, Sorrento). Finished off with level II FA's (Orel, Dennis, Eddie). I think one of the most interesting deals was picking up Eddie Taubensee from the waiver wire (drafted by the A's in the Rule V draft from Cincy but they didn't want to keep him so they tried to sneak him through) only to use him to get a CF that was the catalyst for the offense.

My pessimism with this FO is that they were in their own self described "window of contention" and thought giving us Kotchman, Lowe, and Cunningham was enough to make us a contender. Then when we were in contention at the deadline they sat back and played the fiddle while the Wahoo burned. We have so many middle infielders at A ball level that we don't even have enough positions on the field to give them all the time they need to develop. We could have turned 1 of them out for a RH bat (which with the difference he would have made over Cunningham/Damon/Kotchman would have at least been worth it especially if he was controllable for a couple of years.) In truth, most of those nice prospects we have will flame out before they get to the show.....there are only 2 prospects that I'd have had as untouchable Lindor and Paulino.

[Lloyd Christmas]

The Tribe farm system has been allowed to fall a part over the years...the last 3 major trades have been disasters...and the ownership is financially incapable of bidding for star-quality free agents.

And, the losing just keeps on year after year after year.

Under these conditions....only a fool would believe relying on the judgement of the current top FO will produce much better results.

I'd love to hear MS and CA hold a press conference and not sound like we're listening to the Harvard Law Review channel.

"Process", "culture", "moving forward", "transition", etc., etc., etc.! They may not realize it, but they just sound phoney and not genuine. Or, in the vernacular: their choice of words to the average fan sounds like we are being b.s.'d.

My, goodness...this is baseball....not in a board meeting at an international corporation.

Didnt hear todays but i can guess "core" players was used about 50 times. The most cringe worthy word when it comes to the Indians FO.

[homerawayfromhome]

Not that this is anything new but AZ publically acknowledged they might be willing to part with some young pitching for a left side infielder.
Hmmm...
ACab has two more yrs here and any of Tyler Skaggs / Trevor Bauer / Patrick Corbin would look good with Chief Wahoo on their cap and sleeve parts of a pkg in the right deal.

Also there are several teams looking for a 3b and Hannahan would be worth $1.5 mil (he's arb 2 eligible) as a rotational type on the right team.
Maybe AZ or Philly would have serious interest. I think he has value bc of defense and could be a value pick up as a platoon type elsewhere.

[timdav]

The Indians do have some players who could be moved (Choo, C. Perez, A. Cabrera)...and if they make decent trades...could bring back 2 or 3 major-league or close-to-major league ready players to begin to fill the Tribe's 6 or 7 glaring holes. And, at least one of those 2 or 3 being a quality starting pitcher.

In all seriousness...as a fan I just don't trust the talent evaluation skills of the current FO to do it right. I keep thinking about the C.C., Lee, and Victor trade results, and my stomach hurts.

p.s.: Daingean...Loved your most-recent post. I too, and all of my baseball friends back in February looked at the projected 2012 roster and said..."huh?", "they've GOT to be kidding", WTF, and so forth. Seriously: where's the offense? The starting pitching was a concern before the season even began. And, you're so right about the very few reasonably projectable prospects at or below "A" ball are SS/2B. No real corner/power position players, no catching....no real position players (beyond the 2 you mentioned) of any consequence. Great post, Daingean.

[daingean]

The Indians do have some players who could be moved (Choo, C. Perez, A. Cabrera)...and if they make decent trades...could bring back 2 or 3 major-league or close-to-major league ready players to begin to fill the Tribe's 6 or 7 glaring holes. And, at least one quality starting pitcher.

In all seriousness...as a fan I just don't trust the talent evaluation skills of the current FO to do it right. I keep thinking about the C.C., Lee, and Victor trade results, and my stomach hurts.

to be fair, the same FO did well with the Colon, Choo, and Asdrubal trades (the jury is still out on the Blake-C.Santana and McAllister deals). I think the Lee and Victor trades were panic deals because of salary and poor judgement getting a sore armed Knapp w/o a physical. The panic doesn't excuse the FO but it's the poor draft philosophy of the Mirabelli years which set this organization back. I say philosophy because they looked at quick fixes with lower ceilings. Since Grant took control they have been drafting a lot of guys on athleticism (higher potential).

[homerawayfromhome]

I think Mark Shapiro even owned up to the fact they drafted poorly, but he was insistent that the CC deal was solid. I guess if you skew your expectations looking at Brantley as the key piece maybe...he is a nice play but LaPorta was the primary piece to get the deal done.
In MS interview on STO linked on Tonys twitter acct Shapiro made mention of approaching FA a bit differently, he specifically made mention of players in the $4-7 mil range (mid level) here's where I think we will see the Tribe shop for 2/3 guys this offseason while adding a few in trades. Looking back to last yr they had this approach as well failing to sign guys like Willingham, Cuddyer, Ross, Doumit who signed for deals at or very near this range and brought in Sizemore, Lowe, Kotchman and pk'd up Hernandez's option all of which fell within the same price range.
I get the feeling they will be active in shopping for players in this price range. While the Tribe tries to add some now talent back in a cpl other moves.

[Prosecutor]

Hoynes says it looks like both Perez and Choo will be back next year:

Many feel Perez's verbal outbursts are a signal he wants out of Cleveland. Perez said Tuesday that was not so. He gave the same message to Antonetti.

"He expressed to me, and I think he expressed it publicly, that he wants to remain an Indian," Antonetti said.
As for his opinion on Perez's candor, Antonetti said: "I appreciate it when it's behind closed doors. Everyone would be best served if he chose his words more carefully. But I want guys on my team who care as much as Chris Perez does about winning ... absolutely."

Here are some other points Antonetti made on his year-end review:

• Carlos Santana, who often took his offensive problems behind the plate with him, will be the Indians' No. 1 catcher next year.
• Right fielder Shin-Soo Choo, a free agent after next season, is expected to be back next year to start the season with the Tribe.

Kotchman will not be back. They still haven't decided on picking up the options of Jimenez and Hernandez. Grady and Pronk could possibly return for less money.

[ironmike]

The new "corporate speak" term coming from the Indians is GALAXY of players. Give us a break. They actually believe they can fool the fans.

Shapiro defending the CC trade comparing to trades of 30 other teams. This guy is in love with himself and ain't going to ever say he messed up.

The farm system is the lifeblood of the team, especially teams outside of major markets. It was ruined under Shapiro's watch. All I heard from him was excuses. We only drafted in the top 10 once, etc., Why is Mirabelli still working for the team? Why do the Indians promote individuals who failed?

It won't be better next year, only until the ownership changes.

As Sheldon Guran said, "If Dick Jacobs makes the Indians one of his major priorities of his time, the Indians will be a winning team."

And he did.

Just compare the business successes of Jacobs to Paul Dolan there is your answer.

Jacobes hired baseball people. Dolan did not.

It is all very simple.

[homerawayfromhome]

I'm not buying the Choo staying talk, I'd go as far as to say it is a 90 % probability that he is gone. As much as I like Chris Perez I think it would be wise to move him now. I think the Mets would love to have him, maybe they could build a larger pkg by adding in Joe Smith or Lou Marson both needs. Just saying I think they make several moves and with the bull pen depth they have I think they deal from it, move Choo and Smith bc they are potential FA at the end of the yr. Although Id prefer to keep both its not realistic. Another team mentioned back in July was the Giants who have Romo and Wilson who is arb 3 eligible and recovering from TJ. Their we're rumors the Tribe talked a massive deal with the Giants, I think they will revisit talks again too.

[daingean]

I'm not buying the Choo staying talk, I'd go as far as to say it is a 90 % probability that he is gone. As much as I like Chris Perez I think it would be wise to move him now. I think the Mets would love to have him, maybe they could build a larger pkg by adding in Joe Smith or Lou Marson both needs. Just saying I think they make several moves and with the bull pen depth they have I think they deal from it, move Choo and Smith bc they are potential FA at the end of the yr. Although Id prefer to keep both its not realistic. Another team mentioned back in July was the Giants who have Romo and Wilson who is arb 3 eligible and recovering from TJ. Their we're rumors the Tribe talked a massive deal with the Giants, I think they will revisit talks again too.

I know that FO talk is basically that. Thing about FO people and politicians....you just shouldn't believe what they say. Anyway the talk from the FO, indicates they thought they were contenders this year until about half way through the August collapse and they think they can be contenders next year. If that's the case, I could see them keeping both Choo and CPerez. Perez is a pain in the FO's side but I think he may be somewhat of a barometer for the team.

As far as the BP depth, I keep most of it. It's a strength of the team. Yes lot's of depth but with a suspect rotation I could see loading the BP with 7-8 arms and hoping the rotation gives you 4-6 decent innings. I actually see this as a way to compete with a weak rotation. Heck if you go to a 4 man rotation (with a swing man) with a target of 5 innings and have a 9 man BP, it could mask the starters' weakness. I just think it will be much easier filling 1B/LF/DH from the FA market with those middle guys (and maybe a Canzler, LAnderson, LaPorta, Goedert completing that hole). The last team that tried the 4 man rotation failed (KC Royals mid 90's) but if you target 5 innings then maybe with our depth BP depth.....

[Rocky55]

I'm not buying the Choo staying talk, I'd go as far as to say it is a 90 % probability that he is gone. As much as I like Chris Perez I think it would be wise to move him now. I think the Mets would love to have him, maybe they could build a larger pkg by adding in Joe Smith or Lou Marson both needs. Just saying I think they make several moves and with the bull pen depth they have I think they deal from it, move Choo and Smith bc they are potential FA at the end of the yr. Although Id prefer to keep both its not realistic. Another team mentioned back in July was the Giants who have Romo and Wilson who is arb 3 eligible and recovering from TJ. Their we're rumors the Tribe talked a massive deal with the Giants, I think they will revisit talks again too.

I know that FO talk is basically that. Thing about FO people and politicians....you just shouldn't believe what they say. Anyway the talk from the FO, indicates they thought they were contenders this year until about half way through the August collapse and they think they can be contenders next year. If that's the case, I could see them keeping both Choo and CPerez. Perez is a pain in the FO's side but I think he may be somewhat of a barometer for the team.

As far as the BP depth, I keep most of it. It's a strength of the team. Yes lot's of depth but with a suspect rotation I could see loading the BP with 7-8 arms and hoping the rotation gives you 4-6 decent innings. I actually see this as a way to compete with a weak rotation. Heck if you go to a 4 man rotation (with a swing man) with a target of 5 innings and have a 9 man BP, it could mask the starters' weakness. I just think it will be much easier filling 1B/LF/DH from the FA market with those middle guys (and maybe a Canzler, LAnderson, LaPorta, Goedert completing that hole). The last team that tried the 4 man rotation failed (KC Royals mid 90's) but if you target 5 innings then maybe with our depth BP depth.....

The Reds won a couple or three World Series' with just middling starters and a strong pen. All we'd need to find are middling starters. That and Sparky.

[GeronimoSon]

I'm not buying the Choo staying talk, I'd go as far as to say it is a 90 % probability that he is gone. As much as I like Chris Perez I think it would be wise to move him now. I think the Mets would love to have him, maybe they could build a larger pkg by adding in Joe Smith or Lou Marson both needs. Just saying I think they make several moves and with the bull pen depth they have I think they deal from it, move Choo and Smith bc they are potential FA at the end of the yr. Although Id prefer to keep both its not realistic. Another team mentioned back in July was the Giants who have Romo and Wilson who is arb 3 eligible and recovering from TJ. Their we're rumors the Tribe talked a massive deal with the Giants, I think they will revisit talks again too.

I know that FO talk is basically that. Thing about FO people and politicians....you just shouldn't believe what they say. Anyway the talk from the FO, indicates they thought they were contenders this year until about half way through the August collapse and they think they can be contenders next year. If that's the case, I could see them keeping both Choo and CPerez. Perez is a pain in the FO's side but I think he may be somewhat of a barometer for the team.

As far as the BP depth, I keep most of it. It's a strength of the team. Yes lot's of depth but with a suspect rotation I could see loading the BP with 7-8 arms and hoping the rotation gives you 4-6 decent innings. I actually see this as a way to compete with a weak rotation. Heck if you go to a 4 man rotation (with a swing man) with a target of 5 innings and have a 9 man BP, it could mask the starters' weakness. I just think it will be much easier filling 1B/LF/DH from the FA market with those middle guys (and maybe a Canzler, LAnderson, LaPorta, Goedert completing that hole). The last team that tried the 4 man rotation failed (KC Royals mid 90's) but if you target 5 innings then maybe with our depth BP depth.....

The Reds won a couple or three World Series' with just middling starters and a strong pen. All we'd need to find are middling starters. That and Sparky.

..two table setters and a middle of the order / heart of the order that strikes fear into opposing pitchers doesn't hurt either....

[homerawayfromhome]

Who were some of Francona's favorite players? Or maybe I should ask, who really liked Francona in Boston? Those guys could be legit targets this offseason.
I'm hoping that Francona has creative influence in the roster, that will go a long ways in the Tribe improving. With some contracts coming off the books, there might be some room for the Tribe to make moves...I know nothing major but adding a cpl starting pitchers and a bat or two will go a long ways in improving this roster.
As much as I like Sandy, Francona is a tremendous addition. I'm hoping this is really an indication the Tribe is about to really change the culture of the team.
Something I recently thought of, but has been mentioned before is the Tribe could always utilize that added draft pk from the comp. balance lottery as part of pkg to bring in some talent or the Tribe could look to acq. One of those pks in a trade. It might be a interesting commodity to add to a pkg to get some talent back. I think that could be an outside the box way to secure a deal, and bring back a piece they need.

[timdav]

A good friend of mine who grew up in Boston told me tonight Cleveland should be thrilled we've gotten TF as our new manager....and wishes Francona would've gone back to Boston instead. For what it's worth...sounds like the Dolans made a good first move. They need to do a lot, lot more, though.

[BrianM]

The Indians do have some players who could be moved (Choo, C. Perez, A. Cabrera)...and if they make decent trades...could bring back 2 or 3 major-league or close-to-major league ready players to begin to fill the Tribe's 6 or 7 glaring holes. And, at least one quality starting pitcher.

In all seriousness...as a fan I just don't trust the talent evaluation skills of the current FO to do it right. I keep thinking about the C.C., Lee, and Victor trade results, and my stomach hurts.

to be fair, the same FO did well with the Colon, Choo, and Asdrubal trades (the jury is still out on the Blake-C.Santana and McAllister deals). I think the Lee and Victor trades were panic deals because of salary and poor judgement getting a sore armed Knapp w/o a physical. The panic doesn't excuse the FO but it's the poor draft philosophy of the Mirabelli years which set this organization back. I say philosophy because they looked at quick fixes with lower ceilings. Since Grant took control they have been drafting a lot of guys on athleticism (higher potential).

Your a respectable and productive poster on these boards, but the jury is not still out on the Santana McCallister deals. We actually acquired a guy who could have a major league career in exchange for Austin Kearns. We got a player at a premium position who can hit 25 HR and get on base 36% of the time (and thats the current floor) for old man Blake. We had no business getting this type of quality for those 2.

And as long as were talking trades, lets not forget the deals with the Cardinals. The often forgotten Chuck Finley for Coco Crisp Deal should be way up on the list of wins for Shapiro. Coco's career has been hot and cold, but he played a huge role in arguably our best season ('05) in the last decade. The Chris Perez/Mark Derosa deal is also an obvious success, but at the same time, If we never would have traded for Derosa, we would still have Chris Archer in the system, and we could really use a SP prospect with his potential

*Edited to add that I do agree with you on Knapp. The only time I ever got real vocal on these boards was when I stated my disgust with Shapiro's lack of research put into the health of the prize piece involved in the Lee deal....Otherwise I thought Shap has done a pretty good or even pretty great job with trades. He finally had swindled to many GM's, and it just got to the point where teams wouldnt give him what he wanted, so he had to settle for Laportas

[timdav]

Bottom line: the Indians have lost 90 or more games 3 of the last 4 or 5 seasons. Their farm system has produced very, very few solid, major league players in years and years and years. Let's skip trades and free agents to give the team and FO the benefit of the doubt.

5 "small revenue market" teams won 88 or more games this season. 4 of those 5 teams are in the playoffs. So, it CAN be done on a budget...even though winning a World Series ring is the ultimate goal for many fans.

So, it's not necessarily how much money a franchise spends, it's how well they spend it.

The Indians organization and FO needs to learn how to be more effective with the limited assets they do have. To me, that's pretty much what 95% of us are talking about.

[ironmike]

Timdav, well said, great post.

This organization has and is still leaking in the critical areas of talent evaluations.

[GeronimoSon]

....Otherwise I thought Shap has done a pretty good or even pretty great job with trades. He finally had swindled to many GM's, and it just got to the point where teams wouldnt give him what he wanted, so he had to settle for Laportas...

IDK that Mark Shapiro (MS) 'settled' for LaPorta so much as he was advised and believed Matt was the closest to being a ML ready slugging RH'er that could play 1B/LF in the Brewers system (he was moved to LF due to shortcomings as a defensive 1B). It was said that LaPorta had true impact potential offensively, as he had the best power and the best pitch recognition in his draft. LaPorta would wait for his pitch to hit, he had the bat speed to let balls carry deep into the zone, the strength to power them out to all fields, and the hand/eye coordination to hit for average as well. This doesn't sound like settling.. at all.. Add into the equation that the Indians were looking at CC being gone in TWO MONTHS, and the impressive haul of players (at the time) was pretty clearly in the Indians favor, or, as JD Powers likes to proclaim, initial owner survey results...that is, you go buy a brand spanking new car and within 90 days you're asked if you were STOOOPID to buy it..well, your choices are Yes you are stupid.. or NO, it was the best vehicle purchase you could have made at the time.. Other position players that could have been included were Matt Gamel and Alcides Escobar. Only Escobar has established himself as a true ML'er, but not for the Brewers.. Subsequent to the single majority season Matt Laporta spent as a first baseman for the Indians, he hasn't seen much in the way of consistent playing time.. It's a shame really.. The Indians really don't know what he can or can't do..and may never never know.. Perhaps he is what he's shown: a mediocre to poor fielding 1B who's pitch recognition is right up there with Andy Marte.. or, he's the next Brandon Phillips.. One thing is certain, the guys who have evaluated Matt LaPorta and deemed him a AAAA player also evaluated Brandon Phillips, Russ Canzler, and Andy Marte.. Scary, huh?

[BrianM]

....Otherwise I thought Shap has done a pretty good or even pretty great job with trades. He finally had swindled to many GM's, and it just got to the point where teams wouldnt give him what he wanted, so he had to settle for Laportas...

IDK that Mark Shapiro (MS) 'settled' for LaPorta so much as he was advised and believed Matt was the closest to being a ML ready slugging RH'er that could play 1B/LF in the Brewers system (he was moved to LF due to shortcomings as a defensive 1B). It was said that LaPorta had true impact potential offensively, as he had the best power and the best pitch recognition in his draft. LaPorta would wait for his pitch to hit, he had the bat speed to let balls carry deep into the zone, the strength to power them out to all fields, and the hand/eye coordination to hit for average as well. This doesn't sound like settling.. at all.. Add into the equation that the Indians were looking at CC being gone in TWO MONTHS, and the impressive haul of players (at the time) was pretty clearly in the Indians favor, or, as JD Powers likes to proclaim, initial owner survey results...that is, you go buy a brand spanking new car and within 90 days you're asked if you were STOOOPID to buy it..well, your choices are Yes you are stupid.. or NO, it was the best vehicle purchase you could have made at the time.. Other position players that could have been included were Matt Gamel and Alcides Escobar. Only Escobar has established himself as a true ML'er, but not for the Brewers.. Subsequent to the single majority season Matt Laporta spent as a first baseman for the Indians, he hasn't seen much in the way of consistent playing time.. It's a shame really.. The Indians really don't know what he can or can't do..and may never never know.. Perhaps he is what he's shown: a mediocre to poor fielding 1B who's pitch recognition is right up there with Andy Marte.. or, he's the next Brandon Phillips.. One thing is certain, the guys who have evaluated Matt LaPorta and deemed him a AAAA player also evaluated Brandon Phillips, Russ Canzler, and Andy Marte.. Scary, huh?

Ha it was more of a joke than anything Gson...and if i recall Shapiro did want Escobar, but he was untouchable.

[homerawayfromhome]

Ive been looking over the list of potential FA which will change once the offseason gets fired up bc of nontenders and resigns, its a thin crop as many have suggested but at the same time there a few interesting pieces out there. As Ive said before I expect the Tribe will pickup about 2/3 FA this offseason and be very active in the trade mkt. Several names that have already been out there in trade rumors, Justin Upton, Chris Young, Lucas Duda, Alphonso Soriano and Dexter Fowler. With that list in mind Fowler would be the most appealing, however the Tribe lacks the pitching the Rockies reportedly want in return, maybe the Tribe could pull in a third team as part of a much larger deal. Both Upton and Young have multiple yrs remaining but are expensive for the Tribe. Soriano could be an interesting add IF the Cubs eat a large portion of his contract.

[GeronimoSon]

Getting back to the point of this thread (not the continual barrage of "The Front Office Stinks/They're spead sheet geeks/That's not how Dick Jacobs did it.. yada yada...)

The comment:

...I'm not buying the Choo staying talk, I'd go as far as to say it is a 90 % probability that he is gone...

90 % is pretty strong, however, it may not be strong enough.. The departure is imminent.. The question remains, who needs a near five tool outfielder?..

Looking at the landscape that exists, you'd have to say there are about four to six teams that could be in the hunt for Shin-soo Choo. I'll start with the NL teams as that would be the 'best' place for Choo to reside from the Indians' perspective:

Philadelphia: Have no current starting OF'ers coming into the 2013 season. The Phillies traded two of their three starters (Pence & Victorino) and have HUGE question marks regarding the replacements (Mayberry Jr, Dom Brown who was injured during his 50-60 game trial, and Old Man Pierre). The Phillies have an additional "issue" w/r to their third base situation. The Phillies almost certainly do NOT want to have Kevin Frandsen as their starting 3B and seem unlikely to pry Chase Headley away from the Padres.. leaving a very nice trade scenario of:

Shin-soo Choo & Jack Hannahan for Darin Ruf & and anyone one or two of Trevor May, Jesse Biddle and/or Sebastian Valle

Los Angeles Dodgers: The health of the Dodgers out field took a severe hit when it was discovered that the minor shoulder issue Matt Kemp had.. turned out to be MUCH more severe than anticipated (detached labrum requiring extensive surgical intervention and reattachment). Couple this with the ongoing "injury" issues with Carl Crawford and the Dodgers may be in the market with their considerable 'deep pockets' for an OF'er they can rely on.

Shin-soo Choo for one of Alex Castellanos or Zach Lee and one of Yasiel Puig, Alfredo Silverio and or Chris Withrow

SF Giants: Find themselves in the position where they have the starting pitching they need to compete with anyone, but, are limited with respect to their bullpen (Closer Brian Wilson) and project to being "scary bad" in the outfield as they lose two thirds of their starting OF (Angel Pagan & Melky Cabrera). The fit between the Indians and their 'needs" & the Giants and their situation seems to be pretty good:

Shin-soo Choo & Chris Perz for Brandon Belt, Kyle Crick Gary Brown and one of Chris Heston, Josh Osich, or Chris Stratton

Food for thought and comment...

[GeronimoSon]

Ive been looking over the list of potential FA which will change once the offseason gets fired up bc of nontenders and resigns, its a thin crop as many have suggested but at the same time there a few interesting pieces out there. As Ive said before I expect the Tribe will pickup about 2/3 FA this offseason and be very active in the trade mkt. Several names that have already been out there in trade rumors, Justin Upton, Chris Young, Lucas Duda, Alphonso Soriano and Dexter Fowler. With that list in mind Fowler would be the most appealing, however the Tribe lacks the pitching the Rockies reportedly want in return, maybe the Tribe could pull in a third team as part of a much larger deal. Both Upton and Young have multiple yrs remaining but are expensive for the Tribe. Soriano could be an interesting add IF the Cubs eat a large portion of his contract.

IDK that Dexter Fowler is anything more than a "near" clone of a switch hitting version of Michael Brantley.. Not that that's a bad thing.. The other names mentioned certainly have their warts and stick shock issues.. How about Melky Cabrera?.. does he fit the names you're looking for?...

[Hermie13]

The farm system is the lifeblood of the team, especially teams outside of major markets. It was ruined under Shapiro's watch. All I heard from him was excuses. We only drafted in the top 10 once, etc., Why is Mirabelli still working for the team? Why do the Indians promote individuals who failed?

It won't be better next year, only until the ownership changes.

Jacobes hired baseball people. Dolan did not.

It is all very simple.

Mirabelli was hired by Jacobs and Hart. So was Antonetti. Shapiro was hired by Jacobs/Peters and promoted thru the ranks by Hart...

I agree on the farm system being the lifeblood of the a small market team. Do think we should have moved on from Mirabelli and gone in a new direction with the draft. Going on 20 years now of poor drafting...

[Hermie13]

Ha it was more of a joke than anything Gson...and if i recall Shapiro did want Escobar, but he was untouchable.

I don't recall Escobar being untouchable at all, but rather getting both LaPorta and Escobar was off the table, it was one or the other as the big piece in the deal. Obviously looking at current performance we missed there but the Tribe decided that a power hitting 1B/OFer was a bigger area of need than a slick fielding/light hitting SS...and honestly, think they were right there. Sure you could argue having Escobar at SS would allow AC to move to 3B or 2B (with Kipnis in the OF) but Tribe did see they had Cabrera coming up at SS (was struggling 2008 but had a solid finish in 2007 and was very young still) yet really were lacking a big bat.

[GeronimoSon]

The farm system is the lifeblood of the team, especially teams outside of major markets. It was ruined under Shapiro's watch. All I heard from him was excuses. We only drafted in the top 10 once, etc., Why is Mirabelli still working for the team? Why do the Indians promote individuals who failed?

It won't be better next year, only until the ownership changes.

Jacobes hired baseball people. Dolan did not.

It is all very simple.

Mirabelli was hired by Jacobs and Hart. So was Antonetti. Shapiro was hired by Jacobs/Peters and promoted thru the ranks by Hart...

I agree on the farm system being the lifeblood of the a small market team. Do think we should have moved on from Mirabelli and gone in a new direction with the draft. Going on 20 years now of poor drafting...

OOOOPS...
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[homerawayfromhome]

I'd make a serious run at Melky... I'd prefer a short incentive - laden type deal, I've thrown that out there. As for Fowler he's a switch hitter, he is similar to Brantley, he's got a little bit more pop, overall solid but not spectacular and controllable for 3 more yrs.

I think Philly, Pitt, NYY, Boston, LAD, LAA,SF and Tx could have legit interest in Choo this offseason. I don't think Boston will let Ross hit the FA mkt but Hamilton and Swisher could find new homes.

I've heard rumor that SF was not going to offer Wilson arb. making him a FA, if I recall correctly he made $8.5 mil last yr that could give them serious interest in Perez.

The Dbax, Dodgers, and Phillies all could be in the mkt for 3b this offseason from my understanding. I think the Tribe should keep Hannahan and pkg him in a deal to big in a guy like Yasel Puig. Maybe they could even bring back a guy like Darin Ruf for him.

[GeronimoSon]

I'd make a serious run at Melky... I'd prefer a short incentive - laden type deal, I've thrown that out there. As for Fowler he's a switch hitter, he is similar to Brantley, he's got a little bit more pop, overall solid but not spectacular and controllable for 3 more yrs.

I think Philly, Pitt, NYY, Boston, LAD, LAA,SF and Tx could have legit interest in Choo this offseason. I don't think Boston will let Ross hit the FA mkt but Hamilton and Swisher could find new homes.

I've heard rumor that SF was not going to offer Wilson arb. making him a FA, if I recall correctly he made $8.5 mil last yr that could give them serious interest in Perez.

The Dbax, Dodgers, and Phillies all could be in the mkt for 3b this offseason from my understanding. I think the Tribe should keep Hannahan and pkg him in a deal to big in a guy like Yasel Puig. Maybe they could even bring back a guy like Darin Ruf for him.

We pretty much agree on Melky.. short/incentive laden would work.. perhaps a poison pill as well.. Say for example: "...If evidence is unearthed that he wander by a store selling information about how to illegally pass drug tests" then he forfeits his salary.. (yes.. this is tongue in cheek)...

I doubt Pittsburgh has the cajones to pursue Choo and if they do, it would only be "on the cheap" knowing how they operate. The Angels have a crowded OF already, so, I don't see a fit there, but the Rangers & Red Sox could be interested. The Yankees would be interested too, especially if they think the red sox are involved. Hamilton, after a lot of squirreling around and innuendo and media contrived hype, ends up returning to the Rangers. Swisher would give his left nut and receive no pay to stay with the Yankees..

Perez and the SF Giants seem like a perfect fit.. In fact.. both CP and Choo together would complete the Giants.. imho.. I've liked what's been written about Puig since he first came on the scene (Cespedes as well.. but we know where he ended up), his acquisition would be sweeet....and you've seen what I've said about Ruf...

[homerawayfromhome]

I actually noticed Ruf for the first time a few wks ago. Obvious power RH bat that has been blocked at 1b, they like him in LF but the right deal could get him I think.

I think the Tribe might be able to work out a huge deal with SF both Perez and Choo. I'm not sure Stratton would be available bc of 1 yr tr / draft rule, but another name to replace him is Clayton Blackburn. I'm all in on Kyle Crick if they could get him.

I'm highly intrigued by Yasel Puig, at some point the Tribe has to take a chance on a guy like this.

As for the Angels, Torii Hunter is 37 and a FA but likely to r/s. Bourjos will probably be traded, as the Angels look to sure up their bull pen. I think adding Choo could be a possibility IF Bourjos is pkg in a trade. Might the Angels have interst in Perez???

[homerawayfromhome]

I think we will see the Tribe be a bit more active in the trade front than what some expect. I know just about everyone knows Choo and likely Perez are gone. The Tribe will also shop Masterson and ACab too. Here's four other guys who might be traded this offseason...

1. Joe Smith - the sidearmer is 3rd yr arb eligible and likely to get a nice raise. He would be a nice add to any pen.
2. Tony Sipp - the Tribe has a number of lefty options and is growing frustrated with Sipps unwhelming results, I doubt he gets moved, but there is a possibility as he becomes arb eligible and a bit more expensive.
3. Jack Hannahan - the defensive oriented 3b / 1b is a luxury for the Tribe, Hannahan is eligible for arb the second time around. Hannahan would be a solid add and platoon type for a number of clubs seeking a vet 3b.
4. Lou Marson - is defensive specialist and could start for some clubs. What he lacks in offense he makes up with his solid all around catching game. A number of teams could come calling including the Mets, and Rays.

[GoTribe028]

I think we will see the Tribe be a bit more active in the trade front than what some expect. I know just about everyone knows Choo and likely Perez are gone. The Tribe will also shop Masterson and ACab too. Here's four other guys who might be traded this offseason...

1. Joe Smith - the sidearmer is 3rd yr arb eligible and likely to get a nice raise. He would be a nice add to any pen.
2. Tony Sipp - the Tribe has a number of lefty options and is growing frustrated with Sipps unwhelming results, I doubt he gets moved, but there is a possibility as he becomes arb eligible and a bit more expensive.
3. Jack Hannahan - the defensive oriented 3b / 1b is a luxury for the Tribe, Hannahan is eligible for arb the second time around. Hannahan would be a solid add and platoon type for a number of clubs seeking a vet 3b.
4. Lou Marson - is defensive specialist and could start for some clubs. What he lacks in offense he makes up with his solid all around catching game. A number of teams could come calling including the Mets, and Rays.

I hope the Indians don't move Lou Marson. I agree he could be an attractive player to other clubs, but I also think he's too valuable to the Indians as well.

Of course the Indians could always acquire a young catcher in a deal for CPerez or Choo or whoever the Indians might move. That could help soften the blow from a potential loss of Marson.

So many directions the Indians could go this offseason.

[ironmike]

Agree on Melky, he is better than any position player we currently have.

[go_tribe]

Agree on Melky, he is better than any position player we currently have.

Dont' be ridiculous

[GeronimoSon]

Agree on Melky, he is better than any position player we currently have.

Dont' be ridiculous

Go_Tribe... Sadly.. this is as close to "not being ridiculous" as he gets...unless, of course, he's whining about who's fault it is... or which unavailable superstar the Indians should go get..yada yada...

[daingean]

Agree on Melky, he is better than any position player we currently have.

Signing Melky would be a huge gamble. His 1 solid year was interupted by a PED violation. Odds are you will never see a year like that again (.900+ OPS). In fact, there is about a 50/50 shot that he has an Austin Kearns like year (the second one) if he stops using the PEDs.

[ironmike]

Daingean, you are probably correct it would be a huge gamble, but worth taking considering our few resources.

Like the year he had with the Royals in 2010 and he is only 28 years old. Although his BB-K ratio could be a little better but he did score 102 runs that year, which is exceptional.

[homerawayfromhome]

I think the Tribe could look in a number directions. It really doesn't matter that FA is not that deep this offseason, in fact in a way it could help the Tribe out when looking to move Choo, Perez and possibly Masterson and ACab too. There will be stiff competition in the FA mkt and a numb of clubs that typically aren't spenders like the Royals will be on the mkt this yr looking for pitching. Here's a list of some guys I think the Tribe could look at in FA.

Anibal Sanchez, Jeremy Gutherie, Francisco Liriano, Jorge DeLaRosa, Aaron Cook, Kevin Correia, Carlos Villanueva, Joe Saunders, JP Howell, Delmon Young, Mike Napoli, Ronny Cedeno, Jonny Gomes, Scott Hairston, Melky Cabrera, Cody Ross, Carlos Lee, Kevin Youkilis, Carlos Pena, Angel Pagan and Shane Victorino.

I think the Tribe should consider making a serious run at some other guys like BJ Upton and Michael Bourn or add a Justin Upton or Chris Young through trade, but doubt they are willing to do the type deals that these guys command. I also mentioned Lucas Duda, Dexter Fowler as potential trade targets. If Ike Davis is on the trade mkt the Tribe should consider making a move on him, with no one in the lineup with 30+ hrs on the resume solidifying a 1b with power would go a long way to generating offense. Davis is also controllable for several more yrs.

I know it's not like the Tribe to spend seriously in FA but at some point the Tribe has to consider shaking things up. FA can be a waste of money and that's why they should limit the length of any deals or minimize the volume of large deals. At some point the Tribe should at least consider adding a guy like Justin Upton who is young, controllable, and entering his prime. Upton would add an explosive piece to the offense, but a deal on a guy like Ike Davis would do the same. The kind of deals should be on the table for the Tribe.

The Tribe needs to consider adding 2 anchors, ONE in the rotation and ONE in the lineup. Making a trade for guys like Justin Upton or Davis or signing a guy like Bourn or Napoli could do that on offense or by signing an arm like Anibal Sanchez to solidify the rotation. The Tribe has to shake things up. Adding pure numbers won't help, if there are not guys who can carry the lineup or the rotation. Unless the Tribe feels these guys are already in place.

When the Tribe moves Choo a huge hole will develop in the lineup IF the Tribe does not fill the void of offense the Choo provided. Maybe the Tribe could do a larger deal with the Mets for example...
Choo and CPerez for Davis, Duda, Wheeler, and Pawlecki.

[Rocky55]

I think the Tribe could look in a number directions. It really doesn't matter that FA is not that deep this offseason, in fact in a way it could help the Tribe out when looking to move Choo, Perez and possibly Masterson and ACab too. There will be stiff competition in the FA mkt and a numb of clubs that typically aren't spenders like the Royals will be on the mkt this yr looking for pitching. Here's a list of some guys I think the Tribe could look at in FA.
Anibal Sanchez, Jeremy Gutherie, Francisco Liriano, Jorge DeLaRosa, Aaron Cook, Kevin Correia, Carlos Villanueva, Joe Saunders, JP Howell, Delmon Young, Mike Napoli, Jonny Gomes, Scott Hairston, Melky Cabrera, Cody Ross, Carlos Lee, Kevin Youkilis, Carlos Pena, Angel Pagan and Shane Victorino.

Agree that the weak FA class gives more value to our trade assets. Good call. Also if we then bring back more pieces in trades, we don't need to rely too much on the weak FA class. Choo is the best available OF after Hamilton & AC is the best SS available. Antonetti is holding a pretty good hand so let's see if he can cash it.

[GeronimoSon]

I think the Tribe could look in a number directions. It really doesn't matter that FA is not that deep this offseason, in fact in a way it could help the Tribe out when looking to move Choo, Perez and possibly Masterson and ACab too. There will be stiff competition in the FA mkt and a numb of clubs that typically aren't spenders like the Royals will be on the mkt this yr looking for pitching. Here's a list of some guys I think the Tribe could look at in FA.
Anibal Sanchez, Jeremy Gutherie, Francisco Liriano, Jorge DeLaRosa, Aaron Cook, Kevin Correia, Carlos Villanueva, Joe Saunders, JP Howell, Delmon Young, Mike Napoli, Jonny Gomes, Scott Hairston, Melky Cabrera, Cody Ross, Carlos Lee, Kevin Youkilis, Carlos Pena, Angel Pagan and Shane Victorino.

+1

The "strategic" insight is well pointed.. Players play.. Managers manage and owners spend.. to improve their clubs.. What they spend on is what CA needs to be particularly good at show casing... like having Shin-soo Choo prove he can be a damn fine lead off hitter (he's not much of a run producer is there aren't any runners on base in front of him) & can hit lefties in that role (perhaps his ONLY weakness).

W/R to other names being bandied about as possible Indian trade candidates, everyone not named Masterson, Chisenhall, Santana, Kipnis & possibly Barnes should be considered "available" as trade bait.

W/R to the very limited FA list provided: Any one of Anibal, Guthrie, Liriano, De La Rosa, Saunders and Villanueva would improve the Indians starting staff. For the position players Napoli, Melky, Youk and Pagan would be the choice targets..

Good list and posting..

[homerawayfromhome]

As much as I like Joe Smith he is 3rd yr eligible and likely gets a nice raise probably somewhere between $2.5 mil -$3 mil. Smith is a luxury, and I think with impending FA after next season the Tribe looks to move Smith. Particularly with the depth of the bullpen, we fans could see a good portion overhauled. For perspective sake the Marlins moved Ed Mujica and 1 yr and 2 mos of control to the Cards at the trade deadline for Zack Cox. The Tribe could seek that kind of return for Smith during the winter mtgs or consider including him in a larger pkg.

I've mentioned JP Howell several times in posts. Howell 28, is a very good Lefty from the pen. I doubt the Rays will spend to keep him but there will likely be stiff comp. to get him too bc he is one of a very few qlty lefties out there.

[daingean]

As much as I like Joe Smith he is 3rd yr eligible and likely gets a nice raise probably somewhere between $2.5 mil -$3 mil. Smith is a luxury, and I think with impending FA after next season the Tribe looks to move Smith. Particularly with the depth of the bullpen, we fans could see a good portion overhauled. For perspective sake the Marlins moved Ed Mujica and 1 yr and 2 mos of control to the Cards at the trade deadline for Zack Cox. The Tribe could seek that kind of return for Smith during the winter mtgs or consider including him in a larger pkg.

I've mentioned JP Howell several times in posts. Howell 28, is a very good Lefty from the pen. I doubt the Rays will spend to keep him but there will likely be stiff comp. to get him too bc he is one of a very few qlty lefties out there.

I think it would be more likely Smith would be used to sweeten the pot as an add-in to a CPerez or Choo trade. I am not convinced they move CPerez or Choo this off-season but think they should.

[daingean]

Anibal Sanchez, Jeremy Gutherie, Francisco Liriano, Jorge DeLaRosa, Aaron Cook, Kevin Correia, Carlos Villanueva, Joe Saunders, JP Howell, Delmon Young, Mike Napoli, Ronny Cedeno, Jonny Gomes, Scott Hairston, Melky Cabrera, Cody Ross, Carlos Lee, Kevin Youkilis, Carlos Pena, Angel Pagan and Shane Victorino.

I think the Tribe should consider making a serious run at some other guys like BJ Upton and Michael Bourn or add a Justin Upton or Chris Young through trade, but doubt they are willing to do the type deals that these guys command. I also mentioned Lucas Duda, Dexter Fowler as potential trade targets. If Ike Davis is on the trade mkt the Tribe should consider making a move on him, with no one in the lineup with 30+ hrs on the resume solidifying a 1b with power would go a long way to generating offense. Davis is also controllable for several more yrs.

...

When the Tribe moves Choo a huge hole will develop in the lineup IF the Tribe does not fill the void of offense the Choo provided. Maybe the Tribe could do a larger deal with the Mets for example...
Choo and CPerez for Davis, Duda, Wheeler, and Pawlecki.

I like the Davis, Duda, Wheeler and Pawlecki trade idea. Duda would replace Choo in RF (a RF replacement has to be obtained in any trade of Choo).

Like the ideas of Pagan and Gomes more than Cody Ross, Melky or Delmon. Adding a pitcher is important but only A. Sanchez and Villanueva really pique my interest. I think that if Marson was made the full time starter at C (move Carlos to OF if he can make the transition) will improve the pitching staff. I am a bit old school in that I like a defense first C over an offense first one. There are just way too many variables that a Def. C can improve especially in framing pitches (I think a C seldom steals strikes but certainly loses strikes by poor framing) and presenting a target.

[Hermie13]

I think the Tribe could look in a number directions. It really doesn't matter that FA is not that deep this offseason, in fact in a way it could help the Tribe out when looking to move Choo, Perez and possibly Masterson and ACab too. There will be stiff competition in the FA mkt and a numb of clubs that typically aren't spenders like the Royals will be on the mkt this yr looking for pitching. Here's a list of some guys I think the Tribe could look at in FA.
Anibal Sanchez, Jeremy Gutherie, Francisco Liriano, Jorge DeLaRosa, Aaron Cook, Kevin Correia, Carlos Villanueva, Joe Saunders, JP Howell, Delmon Young, Mike Napoli, Jonny Gomes, Scott Hairston, Melky Cabrera, Cody Ross, Carlos Lee, Kevin Youkilis, Carlos Pena, Angel Pagan and Shane Victorino.

Agree that the weak FA class gives more value to our trade assets. Good call. Also if we then bring back more pieces in trades, we don't need to rely too much on the weak FA class. Choo is the best available OF after Hamilton & AC is the best SS available. Antonetti is holding a pretty good hand so let's see if he can cash it.

Choo being the 2nd best OFer after Hamilton is pushing it. Don't get me wrong I love Choo, but Bourn and Swisher have been much better overall the last 2 years. Some teams may even prefer BJ Upton over Choo. Do think he'll have a good amount of trade value on the market though if we put him up for a trade. I seem to be in the minority here but this free agent class seems way better to me than last year's. Sure no Pujols or Fielder but the secondary group seems much stronger this year to me.

[homerawayfromhome]

There seems to be plenty of mid level type FA but few stars.

I think the weak FA class (overall) helps the Tribe pushing up the value of Choo, Perez, Masterson or ACab. That said I think we will see some mutually beneficial type deals. Like I suggested (Choo & Perez) trade with the Mets for Davis, Duda, Wheeler, and Pawlecki.

[daingean]

There seems to be plenty of mid level type FA but few stars.

I think the weak FA class (overall) helps the Tribe pushing up the value of Choo, Perez, Masterson or ACab. That said I think we will see some mutually beneficial type deals. Like I suggested (Choo & Perez) trade with the Mets for Davis, Duda, Wheeler, and Pawlecki.

agreed but it will also drive up the prices of the mid-level guys and/or cause more teams to pick up player options.

[homerawayfromhome]

Agreed, part of the reason I suggest the Tribe to sign a guy like Anibal Sanchez and / or Mike Napoli and then focus on the trade front.
The weak FA class will also likely result in more deals (trades) league wide.
Teams can only shop from what's available, and find other means to get pieces.
Are there any Yoenis Cespedes type international FA? I haven't heard a single word about any... I'd look that route too, there have been some interesting guys come into MLB in recent yrs.