MLB Hot Stove

[BrianM]

Youkilis news

"The lot of free agent third basemen isn't very strong this offseason, and as a result, Kevin Youkilis has become a hot commodity. Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports reports that the Mariners and Marlins have checked in on the 33-year-old, as have the Phillies, Dodgers, and Indians. The White Sox are also said to want him back."

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/#GDBIYCZiS0Pi5d0V.99

Site also notes that many teams are interested in acquiring Astros SS Jed Lawrie. This could be a sign that teams have acquired about ACab and have been turned down, or Antonetti's asking price is to high.

[GoTribe028]

Site also notes that many teams are interested in acquiring Astros SS Jed Lawrie. This could be a sign that teams have acquired about ACab and have been turned down, or Antonetti's asking price is to high.

Says the exact same thing regarding Jed Lawrie.

Also find it pretty rediculous that the Texas Rangers tried to flip Mike Olt to the Braves for another Shortstop, Andrelton Simmons so they can flip him for Justin Upton.

[GeronimoSon]

Site also notes that many teams are interested in acquiring Astros SS Jed Lawrie. This could be a sign that teams have acquired about ACab and have been turned down, or Antonetti's asking price is to high.

Says the exact same thing regarding Jed Lawrie.

Also find it pretty rediculous that the Texas Rangers tried to flip Mike Olt to the Braves for another Shortstop, Andrelton Simmons so they can flip him for Justin Upton.

Why would you think it's ridiculous?

The alleged attempt by Daniels to "give" the Braves Mike Olt for Andrellton Simmons (with the idea that the Braves still have Tyler Pastornicky, who they touted as ML ready LAST season) was a creative way to use the Ranger's prospects as currency to obtain the player Daniels really wanted. Mike OIt is NOT chopped liver by any means. Andrellton Simmons has the skills to be an impact middle infielder for years to come. The Rangers selected to KEEP their middle infield in tact as opposed to moving what they consider to be a foundation of their team, Elvis Andrus in the 2-hole in the batting order. Along with their belief, the Rangers showed the rest of the baseball world and their fans that they put their money where their mouth is by attempting to absorb a DUMP TRUCK full of financial commitment ($ 38.5 MM) with this deal.

The Braves said no.. end of story..

[Hermie13]

Youkilis news

"The lot of free agent third basemen isn't very strong this offseason, and as a result, Kevin Youkilis has become a hot commodity. Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports reports that the Mariners and Marlins have checked in on the 33-year-old, as have the Phillies, Dodgers, and Indians. The White Sox are also said to want him back."

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/#GDBIYCZiS0Pi5d0V.99

Site also notes that many teams are interested in acquiring Astros SS Jed Lawrie. This could be a sign that teams have acquired about ACab and have been turned down, or Antonetti's asking price is to high.

Maybe it's just me, but I still say Youk needs to go to a team that will play him at 1B or DH. Hasn't been able to stay healthy since moving back to 3B in 2009 and with his age IMO it's time to move back across the diamond. Seems as many teams still think he can play 3B based off reports of all the interest from teams seeking help at the hot corner, but personally think it'll turn into a disaster. Never played more than 112 games at 3B in any ML season either. I'm obviously bias but of all these teams being mentioned for Youk's services, the Indians just seem like the best fit as he can start at 1B and slide over to DH at times to stay healthy/fresh. Most everywhere else it seems he'll be stuck at 3B much of the time (though Seattle could get him at 1B a lot too I guess).

There were reports that teams checked in on Jed Lawrie during the season last year so while it definitely could be that teams have been turned down or Antonetti's demands for Cabrera are too high, equally (if not more) likely teams are just going back to see again how available Jed is. Or could be a bit of both.

[BrianM]

^ Agree Hermie. The Indians do seem the most logical for Youk, but a team who wants him at 3rd, even though it may not be the best thing for the player, may be willing to offer a bit more than the Indians would to have him play first. I don't really know. I'm sure a lot of baseball insiders will be curious to see where he ends up this offseason.

[GoTribe028]

Buster Olney on the Twitter

@Buster_ESPN: Indians on a short list of teams being considered by Jason Bay, who is looking for opportunity and a place where there is some familiarity.

Not really shocked there. Bay played with Francona so there is at least that connection along with Mills.

Wouldn't mind Scott Hairston instead, or even Melky Cabrera. We'll see what happens I suppose.

[GoTribe028]

Buster Olney's most recent tweet says basically the exact same thing regarding Jason Bay & the Red Sox.

If the Sox sign him, they'll be pegged as geniuses. If the Indians sign him...

[GoTribe028]

Jon Morosi on the Twitter

@jonmorosi: Source: #BlueJays on verge of acquiring Josh Johnson from #Marlins. Deal could be even larger than that.

EDIT:

From Kenny Rosenthal on the Twitter

@Ken_Rosenthal: Buerhle headed to #BlueJays along with Josh Johnson, sources tell me and @jonmorosi.

My goodness....

Aaaannnnd another

@Ken_Rosenthal: Yunel Escobar and Hechavarria part of package going from #BlueJays to #Marlins. Monster deal

.

[GoTribe028]

The hits just keep coming

@jonmorosi: One source tells me Jose Reyes is expected to go to Toronto, as well. This is not a joke.

[GoTribe028]

Buster Olney on the Twitter

@Buster_ESPN: The Blue Jays-Marlins trade is done... This is going to be one of the all-timers, with Reyes, Johnson, Bonifacio, Buck, Buehrle...holy crow.

[GoTribe028]

Mike Santon isn't happy

@Giancarlo818: Alright, I'm pissed off!!! Plain & Simple

Another update from Jon Morosi

@jonmorosi: Source: #Marlins will get Jacob Marisnick or Anthony Gose, as well as a catcher -- Arencibia, Wilson or Mathis.

It sounds like Marisnick was told hes been traded.

[Hermie13]

Wow.....

Tribe fans can complain about the Dolans, but I don't see how anyone could say he's worse than Jeffery Loria. Talk about an absolute sucker punch to Marlins fans. Good thing they gave him a new ballpark.

[Hermie13]

Mike Santon isn't happy

@Giancarlo818: Alright, I'm pissed off!!! Plain & Simple

When they first were reporting about "all the Marlins" being available I wondered if this would include Stanton...maybe he'll be so pissed it could potentially include him? One of the few guys out there I'd be willing to deal Lindor for...

[GeronimoSon]

A ginormous deal.. Most of the salary on the Marlins is going north of the border just like it went from the east coast to the west coast in the Boston/LA Dodgers deal.

It looks like:

The Jays get Josh Johnson @ 13.75 MM for one year, Buehrle @ $ 58 MM for three years, Reyes @ 88 MM for five years, John Buck, and Emilio Bonifacio as the bulk of the financial commitment,

The Marlins get: Outfielder Jake Marisnick Right-hander Henderson Alvarez,left-hander Justin Nicolino, Yunel Escobar and Adeiny Hechavarria

The net difference in payroll is about $ 130 MM. The Marlins have a one day fire sale, this time without the benefit of a World Series Championship to drag new fans back to the park..

Any thoughts about how the Indians may be able to involve themselves?

[GoTribe028]

A ginormous deal.. Most of the salary on the Marlins is going north of the border just like it went from the east coast to the west coast in the Boston/LA Dodgers deal.

It looks like:

The Jays get Josh Johnson @ 13.75 MM for one year, Buehrle @ $ 58 MM for three years, Reyes @ 88 MM for five years, John Buck, and Emilio Bonifacio as the bulk of the financial commitment,

The Marlins get: Outfielder Jake Marisnick Right-hander Henderson Alvarez,left-hander Justin Nicolino, Yunel Escobar and Adeiny Hechavarria

The net difference in payroll is about $ 130 MM. The Marlins have a one day fire sale, this time without the benefit of a World Series Championship to drag new fans back to the park..

Any thoughts about how the Indians may be able to involve themselves?

I bet Logan Morrison could be had. Ricky Nolasco?

[Hermie13]

A ginormous deal.. Most of the salary on the Marlins is going north of the border just like it went from the east coast to the west coast in the Boston/LA Dodgers deal.

It looks like:

The Jays get Josh Johnson @ 13.75 MM for one year, Buehrle @ $ 58 MM for three years, Reyes @ 88 MM for five years, John Buck, and Emilio Bonifacio as the bulk of the financial commitment,

The Marlins get: Outfielder Jake Marisnick Right-hander Henderson Alvarez,left-hander Justin Nicolino, Yunel Escobar and Adeiny Hechavarria

The net difference in payroll is about $ 130 MM. The Marlins have a one day fire sale, this time without the benefit of a World Series Championship to drag new fans back to the park..

Any thoughts about how the Indians may be able to involve themselves?

I bet Logan Morrison could be had. Ricky Nolasco?

I mentioned Stanton, but yeah he's probably still untouchable (or you'd think...or who knows).

gotta think they are trying to move Nolasco too...makes $11.5M. Nolasco had a nice string of starts this summer but still couldn't put together a full season. Still a solid FIP and xFIP though not as good. Did post another solid fWAR. A guy I'd like to have though only 1 year left, not as valuable as past year. If he was coming over with a guy like Morrison though, bring it on.

As of now looks like only Morrison and Stanton are still with the team of their most used starting 8. wow.

[GeronimoSon]

well.. it looks like the Marlins have their choice of either Jake Marisnack or Anthony Gose..Whichever one they don't want, the Indians should try to trade for.. both are excellent prospects, especially Gose..

[Hermie13]

http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/blog/mlb-rumors/20971637/report-marlins-ricky-nolasco-will-be-next-to-go-says-execs


Looks like Nolasco will be next to go as suspected.

[BrianM]

with one trade the jays probably have the best lineup in AL East...possibly the majors as well.
R Davis
Lawrie
Reyes
Bautista
Encarnacion
Rasmus
Lind
Johnson
Buck
Bonifacio coming off bench to play basically anywhere...

Holy smokes. I would have loved to have gotten Bonifacio, and he is coming off like hes a throw in in this deal.

[Hermie13]

with one trade the jays probably have the best lineup in AL East...possibly the majors as well.
R Davis
Lawrie
Reyes
Bautista
Encarnacion
Rasmus
Lind
Johnson
Buck
Bonifacio coming off bench to play basically anywhere...

Holy smokes. I would have loved to have gotten Bonifacio, and he is coming off like hes a throw in in this deal.

A solid lineup but only 3 guys posted OPS+s over 100 last year (Reyes, Bautista, and Encarnacion). Buck may not even start (Arrencibia may). Davis posted a .309 OBP...not much of a leadoff guy (Reyes or Bonifacio likely leads off). Kelly Johnson is also a free agent. Could be brought back, or maybe Bonifacio starts at 2B?

I'd argue Baltimore still has a better lineup. Had 7 guys with OPS+s over 100 and 5 likely will return as starters (not counting Machado who could be an early rookie of the year contender). Yankees are old but still a better lineup as well IMO even if they lose Swisher.

[homerawayfromhome]

I wonder IF that also means that Yunel Escobar can be had too? I mean he'd be an option for clubs who didn't want to pay the price for ACab.

[GeronimoSon]

I wonder IF that also means that Yunel Escobar can be had too? I mean he'd be an option for clubs who didn't want to pay the price for ACab.

While it is certainly possible that the Marlins could flip Yunel on to another club and would also entertain moving Ricky Nolasco, MLB is no doubt putting a 'bite' into the Marlins FO about this incomprehensible fire sale. For one deal, MLB may say okay. but to totally remove every bit of salary from the club with another "deal".. MLB will step in and prevent that in the "best interest of baseball".

[GeronimoSon]

I wonder IF that also means that Yunel Escobar can be had too? I mean he'd be an option for clubs who didn't want to pay the price for ACab.

Not that a player cannot out grow or mature out of a misspent youth filled with immature actions (some day RustyMike will get there), but Yunel appears to wear out his welcome where ever he goes. He's pretty much stuck where he is with his massive salary and the Marlins being "watched" closely. That could be good for the Indians & the value of Acab, but that's only a maybe.

There was an interesting side note on a Jays trade forum: Go get Justin Upton for LF. The trade was: Toronto gets Justin Upton LF; Arizona gets JP Arencibia C, Anthony Gose OF and Noah Snydergaard SP. Well, the DBax have a very good catcher in Montero and unless I miss the valuation of Justin Upton, these three guys won't do for him. At least not IMHO. But, how about Shin-soo Choo for that trio?. Solves the immediate need for the OF for both clubs:

-the Jays get a bona fide OF'er for an immediate run at an AL East title
-the Indians get Choo's immediate and ready replacement, an upside SP arm projected to make his ML debut in 2014, perhaps earlier and a ML Catcher with some power.

The Indians could then combine Asdrubal and one of the three catchers (Yan Gomes, Lou Marson or JP Arencibia) together to send to the Cardinals for Adams and one of Lynn or Kelly or Taveras. Adding Lance Lynn and Noah Syndagaard to the Indians stable of SP's candidates along with the healthy return of Carlos Carrasco could or should make this team somewhat more competitive. Thoughts?

[homerawayfromhome]

G'Son, I think that would be on the high end of the trade spectrum for Choo, but I could see that type deal if the Tribe kicked in Joe Smith. WoW! The Blue Jays would be a force...but it probably takes the team a little while to gel.

One thing is certain the Blue Jays have a surplus of catching and will probably look to flip one to fill a need.

This definitely puts the ball in the court of the Yanx, Red Sox, O's and Rays IMO. I think we will see Boston be the team that is the most active of that group now. They have the freedom to spend and have roster flexibility too.

[Hermie13]

I agree wit homer. Don't think there is a prayer of the Blue Jays giving up that trio for just Choo, not with only 1 year left. Arrencibia may be starting for them this year either behind the plate or at 1B (better offensively than either Lind or Buck). I don't see them giving him up lightly, not when catching is at such a premium these days.


There are reports now that the Red Sox tried to get both Josh Johnson and Jose Reyes from the Marlins before the Blue Jays made a deal. We know they have interest in Masterson too so think it'd be interesting to see what they'd be willing to offer for a Masterson/Asdrubal combo. Personally am hoping we hold on to Masteron this winter, but Red Sox do have some interesting pieces and can't hurt to see what they are willing to move. May be willing to overpay now too with this Blue Jays deal.

[Hermie13]

Torii Hunter to the Tigers on a 2yr/$26M deal. Damn, nice grab (though too much money IMO). Guess on the bright side this may take the Tigers out of the Justin Upton trade talks...

[BrianM]

May be willing to overpay now too with this Blue Jays deal.

Good call. This could very well be true, and could be critical in deciding whether or not we trade ACab.

[Hermie13]

I wonder IF that also means that Yunel Escobar can be had too? I mean he'd be an option for clubs who didn't want to pay the price for ACab.

While it is certainly possible that the Marlins could flip Yunel on to another club and would also entertain moving Ricky Nolasco, MLB is no doubt putting a 'bite' into the Marlins FO about this incomprehensible fire sale. For one deal, MLB may say okay. but to totally remove every bit of salary from the club with another "deal".. MLB will step in and prevent that in the "best interest of baseball".

I don't know about that. If MLB was gonna nix any deal it would be the current one, which isn't official yet. Reportedly the Marlins are sending $4M to the Blue Jays so the deal requires Commisioner approval. If they allow this deal (which they likely will as this isn't the NBA), might as well allow a Nolasco deal. Marlins would be going into a rebuild mode so might as well go all in and deal a guy like Nolasco who is a free agent to be next year anyways.

Could see MLB/Bud Selig attempt to take over the club though and force out Loria....and for once I'd agree with Bud if he were to attempt such a move. Loria helped run the Expos into the ground and now appears to be doing it to the Marlins. They don't want Mark Cuban as a baseball owner...but Jeffrey Loria is apparenly ok....

[homerawayfromhome]

As for the Indians someone mentioned the Hunter Pence trade in comments on the front page (articles) yesterday I think yesterday. Pence was traded to the Gaints for Tommy Joseph-C, Nate Scheirholtz-OF and Seth Rosin-RP. Scheirholtz is a 4th OF / PH type best served as a bench role player, Joseph was a top 5 prospect in the Giants org. w/ the potential to be a very good every day C and is near ready. Seth Rosin is an interesting arm bullpen arm, he's got good size 6'6 250 and a good mid 90's FB. Rosin was a top 20 prospect and will be at AA this yr and is near ready as well. So the Phillies acq. a potential everyday C with good upside, a bench bat and a future BP arm. I think this return will give us Tribe fans some perspective for the value of Choo going forward. The Tribe should look for at least 1 major leaguer in return and expect to net 2 prospects with some upside.

The Tribe could look to pull of a deal like Choo to the Phillies for Brody Colvin-RHSP and Darin Ruf-1b/DH. Colvin would immediately become a top 5 prospect and potentially the Tribes best pitching prospect. Ruf would potentially offer the Tribe an every day 1b and RH bat to boot. I'd think that would be the type return the Tribe could expect to when they move Choo.

[homerawayfromhome]

As for ACab if the club could snag Lance Lynn for ACab they should. Lynn would project as a number 3 in the rotation but would offer a sound controllable young SP. I seems the Tribe and Cards match up well and IMO CA has to move boldly this offseason to make this club better.

When it comes down to it, I think the Tribe should rebuild and retool at the same time. I think it's time to move some parts but also add to the young guys who are here. I think guys like Carrasco, McAllister, Pestano, Allen, Kipnis, Chisenhall, Santana and Brantley could be parts of the core going forward with some interesting pieces deep in the minors for the most part.

Trading away guys like Choo, ACab, CPerez, Smith, Marson and maybe even Jack Hannahan would net some solid talent. Some now talent and some a bit further from the bigs. Then at the trade deadline I'd look to Justin Masterson. In the meantime I'd throw out deals to add to the young talent already on the team. The Tribe could throw out offers for both Shane Victorino 3 yrs for $24M and Cody Ross 3yrs for $22M. Then the Tribe could offer Edwin Jackson something like 4 yrs for $48 M. Then the Tribe could offer Joe Blanton 2 yrs $10 M to fill the 3/4 spot in the rotation.

Lineup:
Victorino-CF
Brantley-LF
Kipnis-2b
Santana-C
Ross-RF
Chisenhall-3b
Aviles-SS
Canzler-1b
Carrera-DH

*That lineup would be assuming none of the trade pieces acq. would be added to the everyday lineup.

[GoTribe028]

Trading away guys like Choo, ACab, CPerez, Smith, Marson and maybe even Jack Hannahan

For what its worth, Jack Hannahan is likely a non tender candidate. His trade value is pretty much dead. Marson and/or Smiths value alone really aren't that good either. You risk destroying the bullpen too by moving Perez & Smith, no matter how much supposed bullpen depth this team has, that would make 3 out the top 4 performers out of the pen gone.

[Rocky55]

Haves/have nots: tigers spend more money for 2 yrs of 37 yr old Torii Hunter than the amount the Tribe balked at for 3 yrs of Josh Willingham.

Homer, I like Ross & Jackson if they'd sign for those amounts but Victorino's going to be a tough get & Blanton hasn't been any good since '09(IMO). Plus I'm really hoping that we get some '13 starters for the guys we trade. The lineup you posted would make us pretty competitive though, especially if you could find us a real 1B. Maybe that comes back in a trade?

[homerawayfromhome]

@Rocky55...

Agreed the lineup would make us competitive I was trying to use Chris Perez and Choo's projected 2013 salary figures to show the Tribe would still have money, I left that out though. As for signing Joe Blanton agreed he's an innings eater who could sign on a short term deal for a decent salary, his name is likely interchangeable with a number of guys and would potentially be unneeded IF they landed a MLB ready arm or two (like Lynn).

Let me put it this way the Tribe could trade all of CPerez, Choo, ACab, Smith, Masterson, Marson and Hannahan and sign Edwin Jackson, Shane Victorino and Cody Ross. They would still have money to spend too on other guys like Scott Hairston or Jonny Gomes or maybe an arm or two like Kyle McClellan or Matt Capps PLUS whomever they brought back through trades to fill other spots.

As for moving both Smith and Perez, yes that would be a complete blow up of the bullpen. At some point it's going to happen IMO, why not max the value on these guys now.

Also, Marson and Hannahan would both likely be add-ins...Part of a larger deal, Not really throw-ins but pieces that meet the need of the other club. Marson is likely to be traded soon (bc he's arb eligible) and teams need Catching, unless they decide to move Santana to first-which is doubtful. Hannahan would be a platoon option at 3rd or bench player for a number of teams (Yanx, Dodgers, Phillies, Dbax).

[homerawayfromhome]

Mlbtraderumors.com is reporting Logan Morrison is being shopped by the Marlins. He'd fill the need in LF or 1b IF the Tribe were to pursue him.

[timdav]

Unless the Indians FO is deliberately not telling media people the truth, I keep hearing the Indians some how think they can retool on the fly this off-season with a couple filler-type players, not make major trades, and compete to win the AL Central in 2013.

With our starting rotation and 3 or 4 holes in the major league roster, and the Tigers looking to get even better for '13...is that very realistic????

Ahhhhhh. If the ownership & FO really believe they can compete under those circumstances in 2013 all I can say is...WOW! Pweh! WOW!!!!!!

[homerawayfromhome]

Rebuilding this team doesn't really take a complete melt down. There are some talented pieces here in this org. a lot would have to go right and with a cpl of key pieces this club could be competitive this coming season. The question is, what is competitive? I could see this club rebound to 75-80 wins next yr assuming they add a cpl avg parts and get better production from a number of pieces.
Trading a guy like ACab for someone like Lance Lynn wouldn't be a blow up move. They could easily trade several of these guys and bring back now talent.
Like Insaid the question is what do you consider competitive?
Personally, I think they should build / on the move trade some of these guys but also look to add several pieces through trade and FA signings.
Overall, if trying to contend is the route this club goes...I can see a fire sale on the horizon next summer.

[GeronimoSon]

Unless the Indians FO is deliberately not telling media people the truth, I keep hearing the Indians some how think they can retool on the fly this off-season with a couple filler-type players, not make major trades, and compete to win the AL Central in 2013.

With our starting rotation and 3 or 4 holes in the major league roster, and the Tigers looking to get even better for '13????

Ahhhhhh. If the ownership & FO really believe they can compete under those circumstances in 2013 all I can say is...WOW! Pweh! WOW!!!!!!

timd.. do you have a link to the media people showing where they've quoted the FO or ownership or anyone associated with the Indians inclusive of the peanut vendors on this strategy?.. please post it...

[Hermie13]

Mlbtraderumors.com is reporting Logan Morrison is being shopped by the Marlins. He'd fill the need in LF or 1b IF the Tribe were to pursue him.

I'd love to land him. Not the best year for him but still potential in that at (even if it's another lefty) and still cheap/controllable. Belongs at 1B IMO but obviously a hole there. Maybe you could get him if you take Nolasco too? Getting both of them and not giving up a top 2 spec could work maybe? Morrison may only be a Colby Rasmus type, guy that has tons of potential but never gets over the hump...but still a guy I'd gamble on in the right deal.

[Hermie13]

Haves/have nots: tigers spend more money for 2 yrs of 37 yr old Torii Hunter than the amount the Tribe balked at for 3 yrs of Josh Willingham.

Homer, I like Ross & Jackson if they'd sign for those amounts but Victorino's going to be a tough get & Blanton hasn't been any good since '09(IMO). Plus I'm really hoping that we get some '13 starters for the guys we trade. The lineup you posted would make us pretty competitive though, especially if you could find us a real 1B. Maybe that comes back in a trade?

Tigers signed Hunter to the same deal that the Cards signed Beltran to last year....even those he was 3 years older and not as good. I think this really bumps up Choo's trade value by the way. If a guy like Hunter can get a 2yr/$26M deal in this market, what will guys like Hamilton, Swisher, Upton, Bourn, etc get? Heck, even Ichiro. Lots of teams could come calling if demands start getting too outrageous for those guys...

I tend to agree on Victorino but the Tribe does have playing time for him and a lot of teams may view him as a platoon guy (which is probably the smart move though). Has a World Series ring so a competitive offer and playing time could be enough for Victorino...though again, smart money is on him going elsewhere (Cincy makes sense IMO). Also agree on Blanton...give me McAllister, Carrasco, and Kluber over him at the backend of that rotation.

[Rocky55]

Mlbtraderumors.com is reporting Logan Morrison is being shopped by the Marlins. He'd fill the need in LF or 1b IF the Tribe were to pursue him.

I'd love to land him. Not the best year for him but still potential in that at (even if it's another lefty) and still cheap/controllable. Belongs at 1B IMO but obviously a hole there. Maybe you could get him if you take Nolasco too? Getting both of them and not giving up a top 2 spec could work maybe? Morrison may only be a Colby Rasmus type, guy that has tons of potential but never gets over the hump...but still a guy I'd gamble on in the right deal.

+1 on Morrison. He'd be an upgrade over what we ran out there last year at 1B. His splits against LHP's are good so that's no prob either. Potential for improvement, heading in to his prime, hopefully won't cost too much in prospects.

I feel like a vulture circling around the corpse of the Marlins.

[BrianM]

I think this really bumps up Choo's trade value by the way.

I like where your heads at Hermie. This is a logical assumption, and its giving me realistic optimism. Now hopefully it actually has some truth to it and we can sell Choo Choo for some real talent.

[homerawayfromhome]

Rocky55... There's nothing wrong with picking the meat off the bones.

[timdav]

Hermie: Sorry not to answer your question sooner...been busy.

Any way...the public places I hear about the Indians are the same places all of you can check out: Plain Dealer, Akron Beacon Journal beat writers, their Twitter accounts, other national writer's Twitter accounts (i.e.: Jon Heyman), and Les Levine's weeknight show "More Sports & Les Levine" on Time-Warner-Cable's NEON network (6pm weekdays, replays at I think 11pm).

I don't save article links because I assume as fans all of you read those websites, papers, and watch local sports radio and TV....especially website stuff.

I do have some contact with a couple of major NE Ohio sports writers/broadcast media people that I met over many decades when I worked in media (just retired this year), but I'm not going to make public the names of those people who've told me things in confidence as another media person (these people have jobs and can't afford to possibly get into a hassle with their employers). Believe me if you want to, don't believe me if you don't....that's your call.

Bottom line is, I've never, ever posted anything but what I was told by those folks. I kinda figure their careers are working with these teams...they're going to know more than 99.9% of all of us...and, it is kinda cool to know (though everything we hear doesn't make us happy!).

[GeronimoSon]

Hermie: Sorry not to answer your question sooner...been busy.

Any way...the public places I hear about the Indians are the same places all of you can check out: Plain Dealer, Akron Beacon Journal beat writers, their Twitter accounts, other national writer's Twitter accounts (i.e.: Jon Heyman), and Les Levine's weeknight show "More Sports & Les Levine" on Time-Warner-Cable's NEON network (6pm weekdays, replays at I think 11pm).

I don't save article links because I assume as fans all of you read those websites, papers, and watch local sports radio and TV....especially website stuff.

I do have some contact with a couple of major NE Ohio sports writers/broadcast media people that I met over many decades when I worked in media (just retired this year), but I'm not going to make public the names of those people who've told me things in confidence as another media person (these people have jobs and can't afford to possibly get into a hassle with their employers). Believe me if you want to, don't believe me if you don't....that's your call.

Bottom line is, I've never, ever posted anything but what I was told by those folks. I kinda figure their careers are working with these teams...they're going to know more than 99.9% of all of us...and, it is kinda cool to know (though everything we hear doesn't make us happy!).

I think you meant G'Son on this.. Hermie doesn't need any more credit than he's already getting..lol.. As far as the response, okay, not a specific source is who you are citing. More of a generalized reproach by one or more of several possible local media people. The question was raised to determine if the source was a media person or an actual front office person. It's appears it was a media person and that's fine that they are not specifically named.

[GeronimoSon]

Rocky55... There's nothing wrong with picking the meat off the bones.

Old wives tale: the closer to the bone, the sweeter the meat...

[homerawayfromhome]

I somewhat agree they could retool on the fly. I think to get the return that this team needs it will have to move some of these guys. Here's the guys I think the Tribe could move and some commentary.

1. Choo - and his 'friendly' one yr contract (projected $8 M in arb) could spark interest from other teams, IF he is available now, the possibility of gaining a comp pk if he is lost after the season would intrigue some teams. Looking at Torii Hunters contract with the Tigers should actually help the Tribe. Choo is going to leave this team at some point, I say trade him now
Looking at the Pence trade (Phillies acq. Tommy Joesph #3 Giants prospect, Nate Scheirholtz-OF MLB bench bat, Seth Rosin-RHRP #18 Giants prospect) - he could bring back a decent piece or two. I could easily see the Tribe carrying Choo into the season and landing equal value / in comparison if they traded him today.

2. ACab - ACab has two yrs of control remaining. It seems like ACab shows up out of shape and fades during the second half of the season / or is it simply a lack of motivation? The mkt is pretty week on SS and ACab is an AS caliber offensive SS. If the Tribe could land an arm like Lance Lynn and Matt Adams from STL they have to do it! - as has been rumored. I'd suspect that would have to be a bigger deal than that to get it done, but Lynn could be a solid #2/3 with the Tribe for yrs.

3. Chris Perez - Perez's comments alone could have meant his days are numbered in Cleveland. I like Perez's fiery competiveness he brings to the table BUT at (projected) $7M+ it just doesn't seem the Tribe would be utilizing their resources to fullest capacity paying a Closer that kind of money - especially with Pestano and Allen already in tow and a number of arms coming up. Perez's value is high and the mkt for Closers seems weak...sounds like a match made in heaven to me. It's time to move Perez and PRAY the Tribe is able to land this yrs Jarrod Parker or Josh Reddick.

4. Joe Smith - The sidewinder is in his walk yr. He is arb eligible the third time around and figures to land about a $1 M pay raise. While I like Smith and wish the Tribe would extend him 2/3 yrs to a team friendly deal the Tribe has a lot of arms that could wind up pitching from the pen. Moving Smith probably won't land anything more than 1 good prospect in a 1 for 1 deal, I think the Tribe could / should consider it. IF the Tribe moves CPerez I could see them holding onto Smith and potentially moving him at the trade deadline. Another train of thought, Smith could be a secondary piece in a larger deal. This is only an example but Choo and Smith to TX for Derek Holland.

5. Justin Masterson - I really don't see the Tribe moving Masterson UNLESS they are really blown away, IF they could make a deal like the Mat Latos or Gio Gonzalez trade they probably would. It's not about adding a ton of talent into the minor leagues, this team team needs it but - this is MLB and its about feeding the big club talent, so any deal involving Msterson would have to include NOW help.

6. Lou Marson - is pretty much what he is, a weak bat with little pop, but he calls a good game, has a strong throwing arm - he's and could be hidden on the right offensive team as a starting C, but it would have to the absolute right conditions OR a club would have to fall him love with him as a everyday C. That said he is entering his arb yrs and the Tribe has jettisoned their backup C in the past when they became more expensive. I could see Marson added to a deal to get it done - not really a throw in but more as a secondary piece that meets the need of the other club.

7. Jack Hannahan - Jack is a good defensive glove who can do spot duty at this point he's probably a bit too expensive for the Tribe and could get DFA or simply not offered arb. I could see Jack being shipped off in a PTBNL or cash swap OR he could simply be an add in to a larger deal. Hannahan will likely land about $1.5 M if the Tribe goes through arb with him - which is doubtful. I believe Hannahan could be replaced by a guy on a minor league deal - like he orginally signed or a younger guy on a league minimum type deal. The reason I include Jack on this list is fairly simple: the are a number of teams that need a 3b or at least help Defensively at the position and that's exactly what he'd bring to the table as a corner 1b/3b defensive replacement.

[homerawayfromhome]

What will it take to pry Logan Morrison from the Marlins?

Would anyone be willing to trade Danny Salazar?

What about Vinnie Pestano for Morrison straight up?

Here's my ideas...
1. Salazar for Morrison
2. Pestano for Morrison
3. Wolters and Aguilar for Morrison
4. Armstrong or Haley and the Tribes competitive lottery pk for Morrison

Would any of that be enough or would it need to be a larger pkg perhaps of 3 players?

Honestly, I'm not really that comfortable with any of those deals but the Tribe has to act aggressively and needs to take some chances, this is one of those opportunities that the Tribe could land a young controllable bat. IS Logan Morrison this yrs Josh Reddick? - young bat that breaks out after a change of scenery.

[homerawayfromhome]

The Braves reportedly are signing Gerald Laird - formerly the Tigers backup. That fills a need for the Braves especially after losing David Ross and with Brian McCann coming off of shldr surgery.

[GeronimoSon]

Interesting post, defining and, somewhat, placing a value on the Indians trade chips and some likely / similar comps.

1. Shin-soo Choo: The Giants # 3 last year, Tommy Joseph, is going to be a good ML player, however, as far as rankings go, he was the third best prospect for a team that had the 27th best farm system. The Giants # 1 prospect, Gary Brown was the ML's overall # 79. In other words, The Giants didn't give up a helluva lot for renting Pence for three plus months. Their numbers are similar with Choo being slightly better in all areas and MUCH less expensive. Add to the fact that a team would have Choo for an entire season & the dollar values seemingly climbing out of the stratosphere again, the Indians could expect a return that would net them a solid to spectacular top prospect along with a near top ten from just about any club for the services of Choo for one season.

2. Lou Marson (along with ACab) would fit in very nicely with your mentioned Lance Lynn/Matt Adams suggestion. Atlanta might also be looking for exactly what Marson brings to the table either as a simple one for one deal, Marson for a deep MiLB'er with upside or as part of a bigger deal.

3. Hanny sticks until Lonnie proves he can play the spot everyday. Or, at least that's the way Francona seems to work his players in the past.

That's really going to be the biggest change from the last couple of years. Manny Acta's approach to bringing guys up and into the games versus the way Francona has in the past. Francona follows a different path.. we'll see if that impacts the Indians in the coming season..

[GeronimoSon]

What will it take to pry Logan Morrison from the Marlins?

Would anyone be willing to trade Danny Salazar?

What about Vinnie Pestano for Morrison straight up?

Here's my ideas...
1. Salazar for Morrison
2. Pestano for Morrison
3. Wolters and Aguilar for Morrison
4. Armstrong or Haley and the Tribes competitive lottery pk for Morrison

Would any of that be enough or would it need to be a larger pkg perhaps of 3 players?

Honestly, I'm not really that comfortable with any of those deals but the Tribe has to act aggressively and needs to take some chances, this is one of those opportunities that the Tribe could land a young controllable bat. IS Logan Morrison this yrs Josh Reddick? - young bat that breaks out after a change of scenery.

I would be okay with Armstrong and Haley for Morrison and the Marlins Competitive Lottery Pick