MLB Hot Stove

[ironmike]

IF healthy, Capps makes our team out of spring training.

[homerawayfromhome]

IF healthy, Capps makes our team out of spring training.

Agreed, could push someone else off the roster...Capps is a nice low risk move. I'd still like to see the Tribe snag another arm or two on minor league deals. Curious if KRod has much action...doubt the Tribe inks another pen arm arm unless its a LH.

[GeronimoSon]

IF healthy, Capps makes our team out of spring training.

if healthy, it would be a good start. He'll probably end up in extended spring training, getting in shape to assure he's healthy. It's probably something the Indians negotiated for with him and gave him an out clause if things don't work out.. Both sides are protected...

This is a good last day of January Bargain Bin Shopping find by Chris Antonetti.. Like the Yankees with Hafner, this is the Indians version of a guy who could be a very low risk.. but give a moderate return...

[homerawayfromhome]

IF healthy, Capps makes our team out of spring training.

if healthy, it would be a good start. He'll probably end up in extended spring training, getting in shape to assure he's healthy. It's probably something the Indians negotiated for with him and gave him an out clause if things don't work out.. Both sides are protected...

This is a good last day of January Bargain Bin Shopping find by Chris Antonetti.. Like the Yankees with Hafner, this is the Indians version of a guy who could be a very low risk.. but give a moderate return...

Completely, agree nice low cost pickup for the Tribe hard to hate a signing like this, if it works out great...if it doesn't then oh well.

Personally, I'm still hoping they pull off a few more minor league signings (Theriot, Parra, Matsuzaka, Zambrano) for upper level depth and some competition in ST.

Another quick though...I'll hate to see Hafner in a Yankees uniform, just bc it's the Yankees and Hafner is / was always a fan favorite and overall good guy in the community.

[homerawayfromhome]

FWIW, Here's a few numbers to consider...Re: Mike Aviles potential arb case for comparison sake.

Player: Salary:

Gordon Beckham $2.950 M
Ryan Roberts $2.950 M
Daniel Murphy $2.925 M
Brendan Ryan $3.25 M
Neil Walker $3.3 M

Mike Aviles filed for $3.4 M while the Tribe countered with a figure of $2.4 M. Arb cases will be heard starting Monday, I'd expect that something gets done before Monday.

[GeronimoSon]

FWIW, Here's a few numbers to consider...Re: Mike Aviles potential arb case for comparison sake.

Player: Salary:

Gordon Beckham $2.950 M
Ryan Roberts $2.950 M
Daniel Murphy $2.925 M
Brendan Ryan $3.25 M
Neil Walker $3.3 M

Mike Aviles filed for $3.4 M while the Tribe countered with a figure of $2.4 M. Arb cases will be heard starting Monday, I'd expect that something gets done before Monday.

If for no other reason that the arbitration process makes enemies out of groups who should be friends, you could be right about this being settled. A settlement that would favor the Indians front office. If Mike Aviles' agent is worth a warm bucket, he should never agree to a compromise because going through arbitration will all but guarantee a win for his client...

[homerawayfromhome]

FWIW, Here's a few numbers to consider...Re: Mike Aviles potential arb case for comparison sake.

Player: Salary:

Gordon Beckham $2.950 M
Ryan Roberts $2.950 M
Daniel Murphy $2.925 M
Brendan Ryan $3.25 M
Neil Walker $3.3 M

Mike Aviles filed for $3.4 M while the Tribe countered with a figure of $2.4 M. Arb cases will be heard starting Monday, I'd expect that something gets done before Monday.

If for no other reason that the arbitration process makes enemies out of groups who should be friends, you could be right about this being settled. A settlement that would favor the Indians front office. If Mike Aviles' agent is worth a warm bucket, he should never agree to a compromise because going through arbitration will all but guarantee a win for his client...

Agreed, Id guess Aviles will come to a deal with the Tribe for about $3M. If this does go to arb I don't think it will sit well with the FO and it shouldn't IMO. Maybe it's simply Aviles wanting to get paid, maybe there's a little more to it...wanting to be an everyday player / not a utility guy at this point in his career...simply, means more money and PT. If Aviles did go to arb and win, I'd think his name would be in the trade mkt...just my speculation.

[homerawayfromhome]

Hardball Talk is reporting that former Indian Travis Hafner has signed for $2 M w/ $4 M more possible in incentives. Kind of surprised Hafner was able to draw that much potential cash.

Another note...Lars Andersen was claimed off of waivers by the White Sox. This is Andersen's third org this offseason and fourth org in the last yr.

[GeronimoSon]

via @HiramBoyd..@TonyIBI If what Gammons is saying is correct then the Indians have something up in getting another SP.. I think the Indians have a trade with LAD or free agent they're going to sign. I don't think they're done...

Anyone know if Peter Gammons / the Indians have anything cooking?.. or is this more "wonder"?

[homerawayfromhome]

The Yanks have DFA Russ Canzler to make room for Travis Hafner.

The Reds have signed Manny Parra the LHRP formerly of the Brewers. Heyman says the Mets, Dodgers, Jays and Marlins all have interest in bullpen help for Fwiw.

[BrianM]

via @HiramBoyd..@TonyIBI If what Gammons is saying is correct then the Indians have something up in getting another SP.. I think the Indians have a trade with LAD or free agent they're going to sign. I don't think they're done...

Anyone know if Peter Gammons / the Indians have anything cooking?.. or is this more "wonder"?

I read through Tony's Twitter a little bit and apparently Gammons comment was about Bauer starting in AAA and possibly not getting a call up till August. It could mean we are still seeking a a veteran starter, but I feel it is more relative to him feeling Bauer needs a little more time. If it is close between Bauer and Carrasco, I wouldn't be surprised if Bauer started in AAA.

[homerawayfromhome]

I wouldn't be surprised to see the Tribe try to add another veteran SP. I still think they are watching the Kyle Lohse situation and would be willing to pay the man but at the right / comfortable price, length. It seems there are likely doing the same, so highly doubtful he ends up with the Tribe, IMO. Are the Indians the mystery team in on Joe Saunders? Maybe, I wouldn't say yes but they could be. I think Carlos Zambrano, Chris Young and Daisuke Matsuzaka will get some consideration for minor league deals.

As for Trevor Bauer, Id think if he's ready, let him start with the big club. He should have to pitch his way on to the club, with his stuff and potential I wouldn't be shocked to see him up early, if he didn't make the big club out of ST.

[GeronimoSon]

I wouldn't be surprised to see the Tribe try to add another veteran SP. I still think they are watching the Kyle Lohse situation and would be willing to pay the man but at the right / comfortable price, length. It seems there are likely doing the same, so highly doubtful he ends up with the Tribe, IMO. Are the Indians the mystery team in on Joe Saunders? Maybe, I wouldn't say yes but they could be. I think Carlos Zambrano, Chris Young and Daisuke Matsuzaka will get some consideration for minor league deals.

As for Trevor Bauer, Id think if he's ready, let him start with the big club. He should have to pitch his way on to the club, with his stuff and potential I wouldn't be shocked to see him up early, if he didn't make the big club out of ST.

Right now, it appears there are at least three and possibly four SP's vying for the fifth and final spot in the pen behind Justin Masterson, Ubaldo Jimenez, Brett Myers and Zach McAllister. Corey Kluber moved from interesting prospect to interesting back of the rotation starter in 2012. He accomplished that feat with Carlos Carrasco going on the DL. The new CC is back to full strength and has been told that there will be no restrictions going for as spring training arrives. Trevor Bauer is no slouch when it comes to stuff. Mentality/polish may be all he needs to become a bona fide SP for the Indians.

These three guys would all be equal to or better than Carlos No-braino, Chris "Isn't So" Young, "Roll the" Dice-K, and Just Old Joe. Saunders that is. If the Indians are in the market for an SP, it's one that has a track record of being better than one of the front four.. or is a young SP prospect that will fit into the Trevor Bauer mold. Is that SP Kyle Lohse?. IMHO, it could be if his price is right. If not, I doubt we'll see anything more than a few extra arms brought as roster filler and or future considerations..

[homerawayfromhome]

@ Geronimo Son,

I know Matsuzaka, Zambrano and Young are all roster fodder... You just never know, injuries seem to hit in bunches 2/3 at a time it would be worth while to stow away an extra vet arm or two. Personally, I prefer to go get Lohse or Saunders but. Thinking rationally, I see the Tribe going another direction. That said, I'm sure CA has already been hitting up ownership for one more piece.

I'm convinced that adding an arm like Lohse could put the Tribe in contention for the division. Lets say Lohse pitched in the 2 slot for the Tribe and produced 200IP 15-10 3.50era 140K. If Justin Masterson pitched to similar numbers the Tribe would likely be contenders for the division. If the Tribe was out of the division race come July, they could flip him assuming he has a contract to teams liking.

Future considerations? Not sure what you meant here...as far as young prospects, the system seems to be lacking any upper level arms outside of Bauer and Salazar. I really don't think of Kluber as a prospect, House could be, but I'm not sure on him and I think Trey Haley needs to hit the mound as a SP, he as impact potential, IMHO and is finally healthy... Of course, the Tribe could always make a move to either acq. an arm like Capuano or maybe some big league ready prospects.

[GeronimoSon]

@ Geronimo Son,

I know Matsuzaka, Zambrano and Young are all roster fodder... You just never know, injuries seem to hit in bunches 2/3 at a time it would be worth while to stow away an extra vet arm or two. Personally, I prefer to go get Lohse or Saunders but. Thinking rationally, I see the Tribe going another direction. That said, I'm sure CA has already been hitting up ownership for one more piece.

I'm convinced that adding an arm like Lohse could put the Tribe in contention for the division. Lets say Lohse pitched in the 2 slot for the Tribe and produced 200IP 15-10 3.50era 140K. If Justin Masterson pitched to similar numbers the Tribe would likely be contenders for the division. If the Tribe was out of the division race come July, they could flip him assuming he has a contract to teams liking.

Future considerations? Not sure what you meant here...as far as young prospects, the system seems to be lacking any upper level arms outside of Bauer and Salazar. I really don't think of Kluber as a prospect, House could be, but I'm not sure on him and I think Trey Haley needs to hit the mound as a SP, he as impact potential, IMHO and is finally healthy... Of course, the Tribe could always make a move to either acq. an arm like Capuano or maybe some big league ready prospects.

"Future considerations" is simply diamonds in the rough.,Look at the IFA/UFA potentials for kids with wide shoulders, extreme velocity and or stand tall when pitching. Onelki Garcia, Victor Sanchez and Bruce Rondon are a perfect examples of guys who are dug up out of nowhere and are now clearly on a patch to becoming ML'ers... The Indians don't have ANY of those guys...

[GoTribe028]

Just an interesting player I've always liked to follow

http://bostonglobe.com/sports/2013/02/0 ... story.html

1. Franklin Morales, LHP, Red Sox — A few teams contacted the Red Sox about Morales this offseason and a few others have him on their list of pitchers to watch closely in spring training. Teams are intrigued by Morales’s starting capability, especially with a 96-mile-per-hour fastball. Morales had to “stretch out” on the fly last season, but with a full spring training, scouts will be interested to see if he can consistently maintain that velocity for a full outing. He did it at times last season. One American League scout will be looking to see how he commands his secondary pitches. If Gio Gonzalez winds up being penalized for his alleged link to the anti-aging clinic in Miami, the Nationals may be interested in Morales.

There's nothing here to suggest the Indians are one of the interested teams, but I definetly would be interested in adding him to mix.

[homerawayfromhome]

Just an interesting player I've always liked to follow

http://bostonglobe.com/sports/2013/02/0 ... story.html

1. Franklin Morales, LHP, Red Sox — A few teams contacted the Red Sox about Morales this offseason and a few others have him on their list of pitchers to watch closely in spring training. Teams are intrigued by Morales’s starting capability, especially with a 96-mile-per-hour fastball. Morales had to “stretch out” on the fly last season, but with a full spring training, scouts will be interested to see if he can consistently maintain that velocity for a full outing. He did it at times last season. One American League scout will be looking to see how he commands his secondary pitches. If Gio Gonzalez winds up being penalized for his alleged link to the anti-aging clinic in Miami, the Nationals may be interested in Morales.

There's nothing here to suggest the Indians are one of the interested teams, but I definetly would be interested in adding him to mix.

Completely agree, Morales would be a nice add. The Tribe needs a LHSP in the rotation. When I've seen Morales pitch he's look good.

Not to go subject here but kind of a related thought the Tribe could acq. a young lefty like Sean Manaea in the draft this summer. Manaea seems like he be a top 5 pk and a quick riser at that.

[GoTribe028]

@mlbtrindians: Indians To Sign Jeremy Hermida http://t.co/F2UZkIt2 #indians

@jcrasnick: Outfielder Jeremy Hermida has reached agreement on minor league deal with #indians. Former BA Prospect Handbook cover boy.

[homerawayfromhome]

Well here's a move a few of us were looking for all offseason...the A's acq. Jed Lowrie and Fernando Rodriguez from the Astros for Chris Carter, Brad Peacock and Max Stassi. Seems like a pretty good deal for the Astros.

[homerawayfromhome]

Per JonHeyman the Pirates are closing in on Jonathon Sanchez. Not sure if its a big league deal, but that would seem unlikely as Sanchez was simply awful last season.

[GeronimoSon]

Well here's a move a few of us were looking for all offseason...the A's acq. Jed Lowrie and Fernando Rodriguez from the Astros for Chris Carter, Brad Peacock and Max Stassi. Seems like a pretty good deal for the Astros.

I like the A's side of the deal just a wee bit better.. The A's get a utility infielder who can play virtually anyplace on the diamond expect pitcher and catcher in Jed Lowrie. His biggest problem has been staying on the field.. but when he IS on the field, he's an OBP machine. The acquisition may be a preemptive move to let Scott Sizemore, Jemile Weeks and Hirosuke Nakajima, there are NO FREE PASSES TO THE MAJOR LEAGUES. The RHRP, is a big kid that throws hard. Even with a crummy ERA, he's still posting nearly 10k's per 9 IP. (we can change that to 9 Innings pitcher per 10 Ks to help rusty mike out?). The players going to the Stros each have a question mark attached to them.. Chris Carter was beaten out last season by a journeyman 1B in Brandon Moss.. Brad Peacock is a bit undersized for a RHSP and the luster from Max Stassi's star has begun to fade as he's moved up into the upper levels of the A's farm system. Stassi has been passed as a prospect by at least two other prospect catchers and the A's just acquired a decent hitting catcher in John Jaso.

All in all, this is not a huge deal.. but it does make the A's much more flexible and doesn't cost them much...

[homerawayfromhome]

Jed Lowrie is a nice piece but has some injury concerns. When healthy he's solid. This is one of those deals where I don't see a clear winner...Oakland got a good SS and useful pen arm. Houston got more prospects, Carter / Peacock should help them out this yr and Stassi is an interesting C prospect with a sore shldr, which could become an issue if he continues to fight shldr problems and may lead to a position change later, but the injury didn't seem to affect his offense.

[homerawayfromhome]

Just curious on others thoughts here, but was Jed Lowries value similar to the value of ACab?

Personally, I don't think so. I see ACab as a superior player with 2 yrs of control offering good offense from a prime position n the field. Lowrie is a good defender but the knock on him seems to be can he stay on the field, something I think is a legit concern. FWIW, when I compare Choo and ACab in value...I see Choo as the better of the two, ACab more valuable bc he's young and he has 2 yrs of control compared to Choo's 1 yr when he was dealt. Honestly, it would be difficult IMO, for the Tribe to get similar return to what they got for Choo.

I know many of you are tired of the trade speculation, so I'll simply defer...just wanted to hear some others thoughts.

In other thoughts...Im a bit surprised Joe Saunders has remained on the mkt as long as he has. He's a qlty LHSP, I see him as a gritty 3/4 type arm. He gets through a decent amount of innings and posts a reasonable era.

[GeronimoSon]

Just curious on others thoughts here, but was Jed Lowries value similar to the value of ACab?

Personally, I don't think so. I see ACab as a superior player with 2 yrs of control offering good offense from a prime position n the field. Lowrie is a good defender but the knock on him seems to be can he stay on the field, something I think is a legit concern. FWIW, when I compare Choo and ACab in value...I see Choo as the better of the two, ACab more valuable bc he's young and he has 2 yrs of control compared to Choo's 1 yr when he was dealt. Honestly, it would be difficult IMO, for the Tribe to get similar return to what they got for Choo.

I know many of you are tired of the trade speculation, so I'll simply defer...just wanted to hear some others thoughts.

In other thoughts...Im a bit surprised Joe Saunders has remained on the mkt as long as he has. He's a qlty LHSP, I see him as a gritty 3/4 type arm. He gets through a decent amount of innings and posts a reasonable era.

Jed and Asdrubal being similar?.. no. Asdrubal's value is much, much higher for several reasons.. Some of the simpler reasons.. Asdrubal is a year younger than Jed. Asdrubal has twice as many at bats as Jed. Asdrubal hits for a higher average than Jed. Asdrubal hits for more power than Jed. Asdrubal has a higher OPS than Jed and Asdrubal is a better defender than Jed. Comparisons being what they are, Asdrubal blows Jed Lowrie away...

Now.. comparing Choo & Asdrubal?. IDK what the point would be. Both are very good to exceptional players in their own way. The most significant differences: Asdrubal plays a premium position and is three years younger. Choo's offense is significantly better across the board when compared to Adrubal. Using this comparison, Choo should return more, however, the position they play makes a huge difference in the perceived value...

w/r to Joe Saunders, other than being a lefty, what does he bring that doesn't already exist?. A low/mid 4's ERA, mid 5's K's/9IP, and a 30-43 record over the last few years, combined.. His arsenal, as it would be, includes a below average fastball, a mediocre curve and an average change up. What he does well (not great) is locate his pitches and compete. He could be the poster boy for journeyman left handed back of the rotation starting pitcher on a poor team, or a middle reliever/long man on a good team. He'd be able to fill in as a spot starter, as well. I just don't see the attraction...

[homerawayfromhome]

Just curious on others thoughts here, but was Jed Lowries value similar to the value of ACab?

Personally, I don't think so. I see ACab as a superior player with 2 yrs of control offering good offense from a prime position n the field. Lowrie is a good defender but the knock on him seems to be can he stay on the field, something I think is a legit concern. FWIW, when I compare Choo and ACab in value...I see Choo as the better of the two, ACab more valuable bc he's young and he has 2 yrs of control compared to Choo's 1 yr when he was dealt. Honestly, it would be difficult IMO, for the Tribe to get similar return to what they got for Choo.

I know many of you are tired of the trade speculation, so I'll simply defer...just wanted to hear some others thoughts.

In other thoughts...Im a bit surprised Joe Saunders has remained on the mkt as long as he has. He's a qlty LHSP, I see him as a gritty 3/4 type arm. He gets through a decent amount of innings and posts a reasonable era.

Jed and Asdrubal being similar?.. no. Asdrubal's value is much, much higher for several reasons.. Some of the simpler reasons.. Asdrubal is a year younger than Jed. Asdrubal has twice as many at bats as Jed. Asdrubal hits for a higher average than Jed. Asdrubal hits for more power than Jed. Asdrubal has a higher OPS than Jed and Asdrubal is a better defender than Jed. Comparisons being what they are, Asdrubal blows Jed Lowrie away...

Now.. comparing Choo & Asdrubal?. IDK what the point would be. Both are very good to exceptional players in their own way. The most significant differences: Asdrubal plays a premium position and is three years younger. Choo's offense is significantly better across the board when compared to Adrubal. Using this comparison, Choo should return more, however, the position they play makes a huge difference in the perceived value...

w/r to Joe Saunders, other than being a lefty, what does he bring that doesn't already exist?. A low/mid 4's ERA, mid 5's K's/9IP, and a 30-43 record over the last few years, combined.. His arsenal, as it would be, includes a below average fastball, a mediocre curve and an average change up. What he does well (not great) is locate his pitches and compete. He could be the poster boy for journeyman left handed back of the rotation starting pitcher on a poor team, or a middle reliever/long man on a good team. He'd be able to fill in as a spot starter, as well. I just don't see the attraction...

Agreed, ACab is superior to Lowrie. As for the comp. it's with regards to return specifically / value...or...perceived value.

Saunders is a innings eating type, he'd further deepen the rotation and could fill the 3/4 spot bc he's a lefty. IMO, they need a LHSP in the rotation that can break up the RHSP a but log innings and keep a decent era. FWIW, Saunders would likely post a 180 IP with an era around 4.25 (career era of 4.15). No he's not a glamorous SP but could provide more depth and value, IMHO.

[adam30]

I don't think Asdrubal is necessarily vastly superior in terms of trade value to Lowrie. I think as Cleveland fans we tend to over-rate our own players, but in this case I don't think the differences are huge. Both guys are basically on a two-year deals right now, and both are under 30, so age isn't a huge factor. The biggest area where Asdrubal beats out Lowrie is health. Everything else is relatively similar. Both posted OPS marks around .760 last year, and Lowrie hit the same amount of HR's in half as many AB's as Asdrubal. Lowrie probably has the better defensive reputation at short.

[GeronimoSon]

...Saunders is a innings eating type, he'd further deepen the rotation and could fill the 3/4 spot bc he's a lefty. IMO, they need a LHSP in the rotation that can break up the RHSP a but log innings and keep a decent era. FWIW, Saunders would likely post a 180 IP with an era around 4.25 (career era of 4.15). No he's not a glamorous SP but could provide more depth and value, IMHO....

With Scott Kazmir, Scott Barnes, Giovanni Soto, TJ House and David Huff, that role appears to be quite well filled. Adding Saunders would be '..just one more body/arm..." At the end of the day, the Indian would probably be more excited about Scott Kazmir rediscovering himself after he's found that delivery that allows him to bring the heat at 94..If he's that guy, then he could be that back of the rotation LHSP the Indians are looking for.. The likelihood of that is low, but better than no chance at all..

[GeronimoSon]

Two quick notes:

1. The Mariners & Kelly Shoppach have agreed to a contract.. yet, no 40 man roster move has taken place. Jeff Sullivan stated that the Mariners are in the process of completing a trade to make room for Shoppach to be added to the roster?

2. The St Louis Cardinals have called for a press conference for (3pm Central?) to announce?. a Wainwright extension?..

Edit: it wasn't good news for the red birds:

..Cardinals GM John Mozeliak announced that Chris Carpenter can't continue to throw and will likely miss the 2013 season (Twitter links via Danny Knobler of CBS Sports and B.J. Rains of FOX Sports Midwest). Carpenter is said to be considering retirement, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

So, the Cardinals are down one of their best SP's.. before ST even begins..

[homerawayfromhome]

Two quick notes:

1. The Mariners & Kelly Shoppach have agreed to a contract.. yet, no 40 man roster move has taken place. Jeff Sullivan stated that the Mariners are in the process of completing a trade to make room for Shoppach to be added to the roster?

2. The St Louis Cardinals have called for a press conference for (3pm Central?) to announce?. a Wainwright extension?..

Edit: it wasn't good news for the red birds:

..Cardinals GM John Mozeliak announced that Chris Carpenter can't continue to throw and will likely miss the 2013 season (Twitter links via Danny Knobler of CBS Sports and B.J. Rains of FOX Sports Midwest). Carpenter is said to be considering retirement, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

So, the Cardinals are down one of their best SP's.. before ST even begins..

Seems like STL might turn around and jump in on Kyle Lohse. That would be a tremendous break for Lohse / Boras.

[homerawayfromhome]

I don't think Asdrubal is necessarily vastly superior in terms of trade value to Lowrie. I think as Cleveland fans we tend to over-rate our own players, but in this case I don't think the differences are huge. Both guys are basically on a two-year deals right now, and both are under 30, so age isn't a huge factor. The biggest area where Asdrubal beats out Lowrie is health. Everything else is relatively similar. Both posted OPS marks around .760 last year, and Lowrie hit the same amount of HR's in half as many AB's as Asdrubal. Lowrie probably has the better defensive reputation at short.

Lowrie has never played more than the 97 games he played last yr. Thats tremendous, IMO. Lowrie hasn't shown the durability that ACab has. While there is some concern with ACab's weight, ACab out distances Lowrie offensively and makes some spectacular plays defensively.

[homerawayfromhome]

Elliot Johnson of the Rays has been DFA, if the Tribe are looking for an additional UTL type Johnson could be the guy. Johnson hit .242 BA 6 hrs 18 sb last yr. Johnson has over 150 gms experience at SS and has played 1b, 2b, 3b, RF, CF, LF too. I think he could be a worth while grab for some body, in a UTL / bench spot.

[homerawayfromhome]

Heres a link to Hardball Talks article which says the Tribe is / might be (?) interested in Michael Bourn. I'm not sure if this is really true but it's the first I've heard the Tribes interest in Bourn since Dec. Although I've advocated for the Tribe to put on the full press for Lohse or Bourn I thought it highly unlikely...either would be solid adds IF the price / length of a deal is right.

http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/ ... ael-bourn/

[daingean]

Heres a link to Hardball Talks article which says the Tribe is / might be (?) interested in Michael Bourn. I'm not sure if this is really true but it's the first I've heard the Tribes interest in Bourn since Dec. Although I've advocated for the Tribe to put on the full press for Lohse or Bourn I thought it highly unlikely...either would be solid adds IF the price / length of a deal is right.

http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/ ... ael-bourn/

I like Bourn but I'm not 100% in on signing him. He faded in the 2nd half this year and he's getting to the "past his prime" which concerns me for a speed guy. Not that he would not produce but I think someone is going to pay for his past performance instead of his future performance (i.e. his production will being to tail off). I just think you will over pay for what you will get.

[GoTribe028]

Heres a link to Hardball Talks article which says the Tribe is / might be (?) interested in Michael Bourn. I'm not sure if this is really true but it's the first I've heard the Tribes interest in Bourn since Dec. Although I've advocated for the Tribe to put on the full press for Lohse or Bourn I thought it highly unlikely...either would be solid adds IF the price / length of a deal is right.

http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/ ... ael-bourn/

I saw that tweet from Olney last night and decided not to post it here. I was stunned to see the Indians tied to another player at this point. I'm split on Bourn. I think there is possible value there, and getting an OF that can limit Drew Stubbs exposure to tough right handed pitching is a worthy addition, but Bourn is an everyday OF, not a platoon type.

I don't see it myself, I do feel the Indians would gladly sign him "at the right price" whatever that may be, but I don't see the, surrendering any pick for a one year deal, which I don't see Bourn agreeing to a multi year deal for "cheap".

I guess what I'm saying is I don't see this happening. I can dig it should it happen, but I don't see the fit here. Kyle Lohse may have a bit of luck on his side with Chris Carpenter potentially being retired due to injuries, Bourn hasn't had that opportunity quite yet.

[BrianM]

Heres a link to Hardball Talks article which says the Tribe is / might be (?) interested in Michael Bourn. I'm not sure if this is really true but it's the first I've heard the Tribes interest in Bourn since Dec. Although I've advocated for the Tribe to put on the full press for Lohse or Bourn I thought it highly unlikely...either would be solid adds IF the price / length of a deal is right.

http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/ ... ael-bourn/

I saw that tweet from Olney last night and decided not to post it here. I was stunned to see the Indians tied to another player at this point. I'm split on Bourn. I think there is possible value there, and getting an OF that can limit Drew Stubbs exposure to tough right handed pitching is a worthy addition, but Bourn is an everyday OF, not a platoon type.

I don't see it myself, I do feel the Indians would gladly sign him "at the right price" whatever that may be, but I don't see the, surrendering any pick for a one year deal, which I don't see Bourn agreeing to a multi year deal for "cheap".

I guess what I'm saying is I don't see this happening. I can dig it should it happen, but I don't see the fit here. Kyle Lohse may have a bit of luck on his side with Chris Carpenter potentially being retired due to injuries, Bourn hasn't had that opportunity quite yet.

I just read the latest mlbtr write up on the Bourne situation. The Mets may be willing to go 4/40 or 3/30 IF they can keep the draft pick, but I guess thats incredbily unlikely. The only thing that made us relevant in talks with either of these guys is the fact that we only lose that 3rd round pick. I agree that I really have no interest in losing anymore picks, but these guys are seriously running out of options. Teams seem to be prioritizing that first round pick and I actually believe someone is going to sign both of these guys on the cheap. I'm sure there are teams out there who wouldn't even offer a 3yr/20mil deal to land these guys because they value that pick so much. Losing that first rounder takes a HUGE chunk out of your draft funds, and could severely damage a teams entire approach toward the draft. I don't know whats going to happen, but this whole thing is just a very interesting situation. I hope someone is finally able to bend Boras over.

[BrianM]

If Bourne or Lohse were to hold out till after the next draft, would their link to draft compensation dissolve? If they are no longer linked to compensation, I would not be surprised if Lohse (Not so much Bourne) just sat out the first couple months of the season and signed a multi year deal after the AS break.

[GeronimoSon]

If Bourne or Lohse were to hold out till after the next draft, would their link to draft compensation dissolve? If they are no longer linked to compensation, I would not be surprised if Lohse (Not so much Bourne) just sat out the first couple months of the season and signed a multi year deal after the AS break.

Surprisingly, that would be less likely to happen than having the Indians sign one of these two guys.. Scott Boras wouldn't be the smug SOB if he didn't have some kind of 'deal' in place as a fall back.. That is, he no doubt has a standing offer or two that would put his clients onto a team.. He's just doing his job, attempting to extract that last drop of blood from that turnip...

[homerawayfromhome]

Heres a link to Hardball Talks article which says the Tribe is / might be (?) interested in Michael Bourn. I'm not sure if this is really true but it's the first I've heard the Tribes interest in Bourn since Dec. Although I've advocated for the Tribe to put on the full press for Lohse or Bourn I thought it highly unlikely...either would be solid adds IF the price / length of a deal is right.

http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/ ... ael-bourn/

I saw that tweet from Olney last night and decided not to post it here. I was stunned to see the Indians tied to another player at this point. I'm split on Bourn. I think there is possible value there, and getting an OF that can limit Drew Stubbs exposure to tough right handed pitching is a worthy addition, but Bourn is an everyday OF, not a platoon type.

I don't see it myself, I do feel the Indians would gladly sign him "at the right price" whatever that may be, but I don't see the, surrendering any pick for a one year deal, which I don't see Bourn agreeing to a multi year deal for "cheap".

I guess what I'm saying is I don't see this happening. I can dig it should it happen, but I don't see the fit here. Kyle Lohse may have a bit of luck on his side with Chris Carpenter potentially being retired due to injuries, Bourn hasn't had that opportunity quite yet.

I just read the latest mlbtr write up on the Bourne situation. The Mets may be willing to go 4/40 or 3/30 IF they can keep the draft pick, but I guess thats incredbily unlikely. The only thing that made us relevant in talks with either of these guys is the fact that we only lose that 3rd round pick. I agree that I really have no interest in losing anymore picks, but these guys are seriously running out of options. Teams seem to be prioritizing that first round pick and I actually believe someone is going to sign both of these guys on the cheap. I'm sure there are teams out there who wouldn't even offer a 3yr/20mil deal to land these guys because they value that pick so much. Losing that first rounder takes a HUGE chunk out of your draft funds, and could severely damage a teams entire approach toward the draft. I don't know whats going to happen, but this whole thing is just a very interesting situation. I hope someone is finally able to bend Boras over.

Both guys will get signed, definitely an interesting situation. If those numbers are true for Bourn maybe something similar to the 4 yrs / $44 M the Tribe offered Victorino could get something done, very doubtful, IMO. I think a reasonable offer would be similar to Edwin Jackson's 4 yrs / $52 M. Regardless, I've been a proponent of the Tribe making another splash late bc of the draft pk penalty only being a 3rd rd pk at this point. IF the Tribe did sign one or the other they could certainly move another piece for a bit of salary relief / or deficit spend to field a better product with hopes it pays off in the turnstiles.

[GeronimoSon]

Milestones marking progress toward the start of the 2013 season.. the departure of the equipment trucks signalling the start of spring training... the Caribbean World Series finale.. and the inevitable last few moves before the the serious business of preparing for the ML season begins for all teams.. Expectations are high for all teams, extremely high for a handful. One of those teams that has huge expectations for the coming season and the purpose of this posting is the Los Angeles Dodgers.. The Dodgers have spent HUGE sums of money in anticipation of becoming the West Coast version of the Yankees.. All things considered, that team should be able to compete save for a couple of nagging issues, one that doesn't have a ready solution...

The left side of the infield...

Hanley Ramirez is slated to be the starter, yet, hasn't played their much. He's currently DH'ing in the Serie Caribe Mundial para Dominicana.. Sigue, entre El Classico Beisbol Mundial.. donde Hanley Ramirez will not play SS there either as Jose Reyes & Erick Aybar will take over those duties. It doesn't look like Hanley is going to be at SS until late March.. if at all. The Dodgers also know that the arm needed to play SS is critical. Hanley isn't playing SS due to a minor arm injury.. all this equates to the need for an adequate backup for Hanley.. Fortunately, the Dodgers know that Hanley can play either SS or third base... At 3B, the Dodgers have near rookie, Luis Cruz and not much behind him.. The Dodgers have attempted to acquire Scott Rolen, however, he's let the Dodgers know that if he plays, it will be in Cincinnati...

What are the Dodgers to do?.. Simple answer: Trade for Asdrubal...

Back a several weeks, the Indians GM, Chris Antonetti stated that the Indians would look for a "Choo-like" return if they were to trade Asdrubal Cabrera.. Well, push is coming to shove in the highly pressurized situation in SoCal.. and the Indians have the single piece that could solve the Dodger's infield dilemma.. It would only cost a return commensurate with what was received in the Bauer Deal.. perhaps Yasiel Puig & Dee Gordon or Yasiel Puig and a ML ready SP such as Zack Lee or Chris Reed or Matt McGill? Either / or.. the Indians have relatively low expectations for the coming season and have an adequate back up SS.. while the stakes in LA are much MUCH higher.. and much needier...

btw.. if the Indians are going to spend $ 40 MM on an OF'er, then it would be a MUCH better investment into a player like Yasiel Puig as opposed to a 30 + speedster like Michael Bourn and his agent, the Devil...

[timdav]

paul hoynes ‏@hoynsie: Mike Aviles signed two yr deal worth $6 million with club option for third year


Just saw the above on Twitter. Signing a 31-year-old "utility" infielder to a 2 year deal tells me two things:

1. Lindor's ETA is probably 2015.....and:

2. Asdrubal is probably as good as gone...and Aviles will be the Tribe's shortstop in '13 & '14.

Just a guess. What do you guys think?

[homerawayfromhome]

paul hoynes ‏@hoynsie: Mike Aviles signed two yr deal worth $6 million with club option for third year


Just saw the above on Twitter. Signing a 31-year-old "utility" infielder to a 2 year deal tells me two things:

1. Lindor's ETA is probably 2015.....and:

2. Asdrubal is probably as good as gone...and Aviles will be the Tribe's shortstop in '13 & '14.

Just a guess. What do you guys think?

I read it a bit differently, although I think ACab will be traded at some point, I'm guessing not until close to the trade deadline. Back to Aviles, I see Aviles as a everyday player who could step into the role of SS everyday / when, not if necessary. Aviles offers an everyday type bat with tremendous versatility.

Btw, hadn't thought about a multi yr deal or even an option yr "holding things up" with Aviles.

[homerawayfromhome]

Mlbtraderumors.com reports the Seattle Mariners have signed LHSP Joe Saunders to a one yr deal. That leaves a cpl of Scott Boras clients as the remaining large ticket FAs on the mkt.

[homerawayfromhome]

Call me crazy here, but I'd like to see the Tribe keep shopping on some of the remaining FA outside of Bourn and Lohse... although I am a proponent of trying to sign one or the other. I think there is value in trying to nab another reliever such as Jose Valverde, KRod, Mark Lowe and Kameron Loe on minor league deals with heavy monetary incentives for Valverde and KRod.

[GeronimoSon]

I'm pretty certain you mean minor dollars in a ML contract for Valverde and KRod.. yet, neither will interest the Indians provided the current make up of the candidates for bullpen remain unchanged...

The Joe Saunder's signing, to me at least, is a great big HO HUM.. This may be unfair, but, I'd rather see him fail in the rotation for the Mariners than come to the North Coast & suck canal water.. The SP's the Indians currently have aren't vastly superior to him by any stretch of imagination, but, they are, at the very least equal to him. More # 4 / # 5 starters is something the Indians DON'T need..

It was a surprise to see Aviles sign for the two plus option deal. It appears the Francona influence is taking more of a significant role than even I thought. He's just a good player, not great.. but plays hard, and comes to play every day. Aviles might become the impetus for a further trade, but, at this stage, we'll just have to wait and see..

[homerawayfromhome]

I'm pretty certain you mean minor dollars in a ML contract for Valverde and KRod.. yet, neither will interest the Indians provided the current make up of the candidates for bullpen remain unchanged...

The Joe Saunder's signing, to me at least, is a great big HO HUM.. This may be unfair, but, I'd rather see him fail in the rotation for the Mariners than come to the North Coast & suck canal water.. The SP's the Indians currently have aren't vastly superior to him by any stretch of imagination, but, they are, at the very least equal to him. More # 4 / # 5 starters is something the Indians DON'T need..

It was a surprise to see Aviles sign for the two plus option deal. It appears the Francona influence is taking more of a significant role than even I thought. He's just a good player, not great.. but plays hard, and comes to play every day. Aviles might become the impetus for a further trade, but, at this stage, we'll just have to wait and see..

The heavy incentives, I had in mind was anywhere between $1-3 M, which is pretty big for a minor league deal. I'm actually thinking something along the lines of minor league deals around $1.5 M with similar in incentives. Maybe that's over kill but it would add plenty of options for the Tribe.

Losing out on Joe Saunders... No shed tears here, thought he could be useful but he wasn't an upgrade just another option...

As for signing Mike Aviles for 2 yrs and possibly 3 it becomes even clearer to me that the Tribe intends to keep him around, by locking him in for potentially 3 yrs. I think it's reasonable to assume with Aviles in place that ACab is and will continue to be a valuable trade commodity...perhaps until the trade deadline.

[GeronimoSon]

Heavy incentives or not.. neither guy is going to sign a minor league contract..

Interesting development in Baltimore..or rather, lack of development. Jair Jurrjens & the O's may be on the verge of going their separate ways. It appears that the medical concerns that seems to be the problem with Jair have followed him from Atlanta to Baltimore. Just over a year and a half ago (2011), Jair pitched about as well as anyone in the NL. He pitched 110 innings in 16 starts, a 12-3 record with a sub 2 ERA in the first half.. At that point he apparently experienced a torn meniscus and bone bruise that lingered into the off season. The start of spring training in 2012 saw the continued concern about his bad knee (apparently it may be considered a degenerative situation but there is no direct information about this..) and an early season oblique strain. This started his spiral out of the Atlanta rotation and subsequent departure.

If healthy (and it's a BIG IF), Jair is a solid # 3 to better SP.. He's not a big strike out pitcher but he does generate a LOT of groundies (>1 GA:AO). He'd be the kind of 'risk return' the Indians could/should look into as his upside is pretty impressive..

[homerawayfromhome]

Heavy incentives or not.. neither guy is going to sign a minor league contract..

Interesting development in Baltimore..or rather, lack of development. Jair Jurrjens & the O's may be on the verge of going their separate ways. It appears that the medical concerns that seems to be the problem with Jair have followed him from Atlanta to Baltimore. Just over a year and a half ago (2011), Jair pitched about as well as anyone in the NL. He pitched 110 innings in 16 starts, a 12-3 record with a sub 2 ERA in the first half.. At that point he apparently experienced a torn meniscus and bone bruise that lingered into the off season. The start of spring training in 2012 saw the continued concern about his bad knee (apparently it may be considered a degenerative situation but there is no direct information about this..) and an early season oblique strain. This started his spiral out of the Atlanta rotation and subsequent departure.

If healthy (and it's a BIG IF), Jair is a solid # 3 to better SP.. He's not a big strike out pitcher but he does generate a LOT of groundies (>1 GA:AO). He'd be the kind of 'risk return' the Indians could/should look into as his upside is pretty impressive..

I'm not so sure, if they had big league opening day opt outs, I think they would sign with that provision. No risk / and potential for some return if they pitch well, or the Tribe decides to utilize their excess elsewhere.

Btw, Mark Lowe signed a minor league deal with the Dodger today.

As for Jurjjens, if the O's back out, I'd love to see the Tribe jump in on an incentive laced minor league deal. Never hurts to add more arms w/ minor league deals, IMO.

[GeronimoSon]

I read the St Louis Post Dispatch and Tacoma News Tribune.. the Tacoma paper doesn't have anything in the way of potential trades coming, but the St Louis Post has several. There are almost always someone posting a deal where Giancarlo Stanton ends up out of Miami.. and, eventually, it's going to happen.. however, not for some of the horrible returns some people are suggesting.. How many Phil Hughes and Curtis Granderson for Giancarlo deals can some people post before they get old?.. Anyway, there was a posting that had the Dodgers, Cards and Marlins that made almost no sense, but it got the creativity bug working..here is the original trade:

Marlins get: 2 of Dodgers top 3 prospects plus Wacha and Ryan Jackson or Kozma from Cards;
Dodgers get: Stanton
Cards get: Capuano and Gordon

which cardinal fans absolutely hated... and heres what I came up with:

Dodgers trade Seagar, Puig and Lee & get: Matt Carpenter and Chris Perez
Indians trade Asdrubal and Perez & get: Trevor Rosenthal and Yasiel Puig
Cardinals trade Rosenthal and Carpenter, & get: Asdrubal Cabrera, Corey Seagar and Zack Lee

The issue remains.. would what's proposed be enough for the Cardinals?. Now, I think the world of Seagar as a 3B w/ great bat speed and a tremendous throwing arm.. Zach Lee is about one notch below Rosenthal but only because of experience.. They are pretty darn close.. Everyone else is a known quantity or is understood..

thoughts?

[homerawayfromhome]

I read the St Louis Post Dispatch and Tacoma News Tribune.. the Tacoma paper doesn't have anything in the way of potential trades coming, but the St Louis Post has several. There are almost always someone posting a deal where Giancarlo Stanton ends up out of Miami.. and, eventually, it's going to happen.. however, not for some of the horrible returns some people are suggesting.. How many Phil Hughes and Curtis Granderson for Giancarlo deals can some people post before they get old?.. Anyway, there was a posting that had the Dodgers, Cards and Marlins that made almost no sense, but it got the creativity bug working..here is the original trade:

Marlins get: 2 of Dodgers top 3 prospects plus Wacha and Ryan Jackson or Kozma from Cards;
Dodgers get: Stanton
Cards get: Capuano and Gordon

which cardinal fans absolutely hated... and heres what I came up with:

Dodgers trade Seagar, Puig and Lee & get: Matt Carpenter and Chris Perez
Indians trade Asdrubal and Perez & get: Trevor Rosenthal and Yasiel Puig
Cardinals trade Rosenthal and Carpenter, & get: Asdrubal Cabrera, Corey Seagar and Zack Lee

The issue remains.. would what's proposed be enough for the Cardinals?. Now, I think the world of Seagar as a 3B w/ great bat speed and a tremendous throwing arm.. Zach Lee is about one notch below Rosenthal but only because of experience.. They are pretty darn close.. Everyone else is a known quantity or is understood..

thoughts?

Call me greedy, but Id want some other prospects for the Tribe. That's essentially, ACab for Rosenthal and CPerez for Puig straight up in each deal. I wouldn't do that, although Puig and another top 10/15 prospect (Magill) and I think I'd do it. Back to the Cards, I'd want Rosenthal, Adams and Lyons although Id prefer Tavares in any deal. Personally, I think if Kyle Lohse resigns with the Cards it's possible they might be willing to move one of Lance Lynn and Joe Kelly in a pkg later. Regardless, I just don't see anything happening yet...

[GeronimoSon]

Joe Saunders is getting $ 7 MM from the Mariners on the one year deal (includes incentives)..