Indians Trade Rumors

Cleveland Indians swap relievers with Tampa Bay
Comment
July 2
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"The Indians have acquired right-hander Winston Abreu from Tampa Bay. They sent the Rays right-hander John Meloan, who is pitching at Class AAA Columbus, and cash. Abreu, 32, is expected to join the Indians over the weekend in Cleveland. A player must be dropped to make room for him. He will wear No. 36. This year Abreu has spent much of the season at Class AAA Durham where he went 3-0 with 10 saves and a 1.41 ERA. He struck out 49, walked 10 and allowed five runs in 32 innings. He appeared in 23 games. He joined the Rays on June 14 and appeared in two games before being designated for assignment. Triple-A hitters batted .123 (14-for-109) against Abreu. Right-handers hit .061 (4-for-66). ..."
Working the sell phones
Comment
July 1
MLB.com
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"Indians GM Mark Shapiro has seen this movie before and might be directing it again. The struggling Tribe already shipped out useful vet DeRosa and rumors abound that Shapiro might say goodbye to pitchers Carl Pavano and Kerry Wood and possibly even slugging catcher Victor Martinez if the price is right. The Orioles could dangle Aubrey Huff, Ty Wigginton or Luke Scott, the Pirates and Nationals already have shown a willingness to part with a good portion of their players, the Royals could make available a host of position players and pitchers, the Padres might offer a little hitting (Scott Hairston) while the D-backs could deal pitching (Doug Davis, Jon Garland, Chad Qualls) to the right ..."
DeRosa is indeed on Cubs' radar
Comment
June 27
Chicago Sun-Times
 
"No, the Cubs aren't looking to replace Milton Bradley -- not yet. But sources confirmed Friday that the team had conversations with the Cleveland Indians about Mark DeRosa earlier this month when the Indians were shopping the versatile ex-Cub. Baseball insiders expect DeRosa to be traded by the July 31 non-waiver deadline, and the Cubs could find themselves in position to reacquire him depending on the asking price and ownership's willingness to take on about $2 million in salary. The January trade of DeRosa to the Indians for three pitching prospects has been a lightning rod for Cubs fans most of the season -- especially since third baseman Aramis Ramirez injured his shoulder May 8. How ..."
Fixing Florida
Comment
June 25
ESPN.com
 
"The Florida Marlins' bullpen is in tatters, in the aftermath of word that Matt Lindstrom may not pitch for many weeks, to go along with injuries to Leo Nunez and Kiko Calero. Sources say that right now, Florida's top priority is to add a proven reliever, and given that most of the bodies lost by the Marlins this season have been right-handers, adding someone like a LaTroy Hawkins or Danys Baez would make some sense. They also will consider Luis Ayala, whom the Twins cut loose and is reportedly being considered by the Pirates. The Marlins' need is acute, and the timing is right: Ricky Nolasco is on a roll right now, and the Marlins moved above .500 for the first time in more than six weeks ..."
10 most likely to be traded - Infielders
Comment
June 25
NBC Sports
 
"Mark DeRosa (Indians) - With Grady Sizemore back, the Indians aren't likely to sell just yet. Still, at least as big of a problem as being 10 games behind is that they have four teams ahead of them in the AL Central. DeRosa has been talked about as trade bait for close to two months now, and the Indians have soured on him as a third baseman after originally acquiring him to play the position. Given that he's on pace for about 30 homers and 110 RBI, it shouldn't be a problem getting more for him in trade than they would by letting him walk for draft picks at season's end. Garrett Atkins (Rockies) - It certainly doesn't bode well for Atkins' future in Colorado that he's been given a total of ..."
Marlins interested in DeRosa
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June 24
Foxsports.com
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"Add the Marlins to the long list of teams interested in the Indians' Mark DeRosa. The Marlins would use DeRosa at third base. Their OPS at the position ranks next-to-last in the National League, ahead of only the Reds, who have been without the injured Edwin Encarnacion for much of the season. Since starting the season 16-for-33, Emilio Bonifacio is batting . 207/.262/.240."
The Indians are ready to deal Mark DeRosa
Comment
June 22
ESPN.com
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"The Indians are ready to deal Mark DeRosa, but they want a young pitcher in return, and the Cardinals are not willing to give up any of their better young relievers (Jason Motte, Chris Perez or Kyle McClellan), and the Mets won't part with Bobby Parnell. The Yankees demonstrated some interest in DeRosa before, and if they believe that Alex Rodriguez might continue to struggle this year, DeRosa would be a heck of an insurance policy. But even the Yankees are coping with some financial limitations this season, and they haven't been engaged on DeRosa for awhile."
Good workout for Sizemore pushes him closer to return to action
Comment
June 22
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"It hasn't been decided if Grady Sizemore will immediately rejoin the Indians off the disabled list or go on a rehab assignment, but it appears he's close to playing in games somewhere. Sizemore stood in the batter's box and tracked pitches while Cliff Lee threw a bullpen session Sunday morning. He took batting practice, played catch and ran the bases. Sizemore has been on the disabled list with an inflamed left elbow since May 31. "It's a day-to-day thing," said Sizemore."
Cabrera headed to Columbus while Sizemore wants action in Pittsburgh
Comment
June 22
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"The Indians have lost six straight games. Never fear. "Things are going to change soon," said shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera following the Indians' 6-2 loss Sunday to the Cubs. Maybe yes, maybe no, but Indians fans should have some new faces to watch in the near future. Center fielder Grady Sizemore says he should be activated Tuesday against Pittsburgh at PNC Park. Cabrera, meanwhile, said he'll report to Class AAA Columbus on Monday to begin a rehab assignment after straining the A/C joint in his left shoulder. Sizemore has been on the disabled list since May 31 with an inflamed left elbow. He said the Indians left it up to him on whether he should go on a rehab assignment or immediately ..."
Look who's back in town: Former Cub Mark DeRosa returns as an Indian
Comment
June 19
Chicago Sun-Times
 
"Even after the thrill of Thursday's late-inning victory over the White Sox, the only guy certain to get a rousing reception from the Wrigley Field crowd today is ex-Cub Mark DeRosa. To say the Cubs have missed DeRosa since general manager Jim Hendry traded him to the Cleveland Indians last winter is to say AIG misses the '90s. No kidding. But is it too late for the Cubs? To get DeRosa back, that is? The versatile run producer, whose absence cold-cocked the Cubs when third baseman Aramis Ramirez went down May 8, has been the subject of trade rumors for more than a month. And the Cubs could be lurking in the wings if Cleveland decides to reignite last month's efforts to shop DeRosa. Since ..."
Deals that might work for the Mets
Comment
June 16
ESPN.com
 
"The Mets have been blasted by an injury tsunami during the past month, and players seemingly have dropped by the hour, from Carlos Delgado to Jose Reyes, J.J. Putz to John Maine. Their 15-0 loss to the Yankees on Sunday had some Mets fans calling into talk radio shows in New York, seemingly trying to decide whether to vault off the Whitestone Bridge or the Throgs Neck Bridge. Tough choice. But club executives are a little more circumspect. Although the Phillies look like the better team right now, the Mets theoretically remain one good week from making up a four-game deficit in the National League East, and they figure to be right in the thick of the wild-card race. So although the Mets ..."
Looking for an ace? Don't look here
Comment
June 15
SI.com
 
"The pitching market is taking some serious hits lately. If the Padres were already frustrated by Jake Peavy's veto of the trade to the White Sox, now they have to beside themselves. With Peavy out "eight to 12 weeks" with an ankle injury, according to the Padres trainer, the team's hope to save the remainder on his contract (close to $60 million right now) is likely delayed by a year. This, of course, is not the fault of Peavy, who received the no-trade powers in return for agreeing to take what was seen as a below-market contract for an ace. But you have to wonder how many teams will eagerly give out full no-trade clauses in the future. The Braves are the one team that has made it policy ..."
O's getting serious about 16-year-old shortstop
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June 14
Baltimore Sun
 
"The Orioles will attend a three-day workout for top Dominican shortstop prospect Miguel Angel Sano this month, another sign that the organization is considering making a serious run at signing the coveted international free agent. Sano, a 6-foot-2, 190-pound 16-year-old who has drawn comparisons to Florida Marlins star shortstop Hanley Ramirez, worked out for the Orioles at their Dominican baseball academy June 5. Orioles director of player development David Stockstill said he was very impressed but the club wants to get a more extended look at the player who is reportedly seeking a signing bonus of about $5 million or $6 million. International free agents cannot sign with clubs until July ..."
Trading Martinez, Lee not logical
Comment
June 14
Akron Beacon Journal
 
"Almost before the Indians could lose enough games to officially qualify as a team in trouble, sportswriters in other cities and those who work for national dot coms began speculating that Victor Martinez and Cliff Lee were minutes away from being dumped on other clubs by General Manager Mark Shapiro. This comes from the same breed of shallow thinkers who insist - I mean adamantly - that LeBron James will sign with the New York Knicks as surely as the sun will refuse to rise during a long and dreary Cleveland winter. Why would Shapiro trade Martinez and Lee for prospects? Simple, according to the so-called experts. They will soon be free agents, and owner Larry Dolan and his son Paul, ..."
Indians have Miguel Angel Sano, a 16-year-old Dominican high on their signing-priority list
Comment
June 13
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"Highly touted Dominican Republic teenager Miguel Angel Sano will work out at the Indians' academy in the Dominican Republic on Monday and Tuesday. Among those representing the Indians will be John Mirabelli, assistant general manager/scouting operations, and Lino Diaz, director of Latin American operations. "We're very interested in signing him," Mirabelli said. "I think he'll be one of the first guys teams extend offers to. I can tell you he'll be close to the top of our list." Sano, who turned 16 in May, plays shortstop. As is the case with any age-eligible international player, he can be signed beginning July 2. Sano's agent, Rob Plummer, confirmed that Cleveland is among 8-10 ..."
Pitching is name of game for Indians in draft
Comment
June 8
Akron Beacon Journal
 
"Pitching, pitching and more pitching - and perhaps even younger pitching than has been the norm. That's the mantra of Indians scouting director Brad Grant as Major League Baseball's First-Year Player Draft begins Tuesday evening featuring a new format. In an effort to put a new spotlight on the sport's annual draft proceedings, the draft will be conducted over a three-day period, beginning at 6 p.m. Tuesday and with the opening round broadcast live by MLB Network. On the first day, teams will draft through just three rounds before picking up with Rounds 4 to 30 on Wednesday and Rounds 31 to 50 on Thursday. ''The draft was changed this year to accommodate television coverage,'' Grant said. ..."
Sources: Dellucci hopes to play in Texas
Comment
June 8
ESPN.com
 
"Dave Dellucci, cut loose recently by the Cleveland Indians, is interested in returning to the Texas Rangers, a team for which he played two seasons earlier in his career, according to sources. Dellucci, 35, batted .275 for the Indians in 40 at-bats earlier this year. He cleared waivers on June 2, and can sign with any team for the prorated minimum salary. The Rangers recently lost left-handed hitting slugger Josh Hamilton to an abdominal injury that might knock him out for much of the rest of the season."
Indians Insider: As disabled list keeps growing, so is likelihood of a Shapiro deal
Comment
June 7
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"GM Mark Shapiro is working the phones, while doing a silent countdown on the Indians' disabled list. He knows his team should be a lot better if and when Jake Westbrook, Aaron Laffey, Joe Smith, Grady Sizemore, Asdrubal Cabrera, Rafael Betancourt and Scott Lewis are healthy enough to rejoin them. The question is, will they return in time to help the Indians make a run in the AL Central. Or will they only serve as flashy distractions in another lost season? Meanwhile, Shapiro has to figure out if and when he's going to start trading players. Mark DeRosa, Jamey Carroll and Carl Pavano are all free agents at the end of the season. Three weeks ago, the Indians were talking about adding ..."
Hafner nearing return
Comment
June 3
Akron Beacon Journal
 
"One day before the end of Travis Hafner's rehabilitation assignment at Columbus, Indians officials weren't certain what to expect from their designated hitter. Hafner left the Clippers and reported to Progressive Field, ''to get looked at and get treatment,'' manager Eric Wedge said. Wednesday night, he will make what is presumed to be his final appearance in the Columbus lineup, then join the Tribe at the Metrodome on Thursday. ''We'll look at him here, and if all goes well, he'll be with us for Friday,'' said Wedge, refraining from saying that Hafner is expected to be in the lineup, as if he might jinx the plan. Hafner has been on a roller-coaster ride since going on the disabled list ..."
It's time for certain teams to sell
Comment
June 2
SI.com
 
"Take Cleveland, for instance. (Why not? The Magic did, as well as a team in every major sport since 1964.) The Indians began June at 22-30 with their best player, Grady Sizemore, on the disabled list with an inflamed elbow that could keep him out from two to six weeks, and then they promptly lost their first game of the month. Now, the Indians can choose to believe they will become only the second of 108 playoff teams to make the postseason after starting June eight games or more under .500, or they can start shopping the likes of Mark DeRosa, Carl Pavano, Jamey Carroll and Rafael Betancourt. (Victor Martinez, the definition of a franchise player, and Cliff Lee, an ace under a good ..."
With Myers on the shelf, Philly's in search of starting pitching
Comment
June 1
SI.com
 
"The Phillies were scouring the trade market for starting pitching help even before Brett Myers became the latest big-name casualty with the increasingly fashionable torn hip labrum. Teammate Chase Utley beat the four-month prediction for him to return from the same injury, but Phillies people understandably worry that it may be more difficult for a pitcher to come back as quickly. In any case, the world champions are aiming high now in their quest for a starter, with Jake Peavy appearing to top their list of desirable aces, perhaps followed by Roy Oswalt, Cliff Lee and Erik Bedard. Ruben Amaro, the Phillies' aggressive new GM, understands better than anyone that this is a win-now team, one ..."
Betancourt probably going on disabled list
Comment
June 1
Akron Beacon Journal
 
"Rafael Betancourt is likely to expand the Indians' disabled list to eight players after suffering a strained groin on his third pitch of the game in the eighth inning. ''I would say it's a potential DL situation,'' manager Eric Wedge said. ''The last couple of days, I felt it a little bit,'' Betancourt said. ''Today, when I threw that last pitch, I felt a pop and a lot of pain, too. ''My arm has been feeling fine, and I was pitching pretty good, but now I have to deal with this. I don't know if it will be two weeks or how much time.''"
Astros' Roy Oswalt might like change of address
Comment
May 31
Chicago Tribune
 
"Keep an eye on the relationship between Roy Oswalt and the Astros. He has been disappointed that the club hasn't made an attempt to land Jake Peavy and recently has seemed at odds with manager Cecil Cooper. Oswalt has a full no-trade clause but might not mind a chance to go to a contender. ... Peavy insists he could reconsider a White Sox trade later in the season. The Sox say they're open to the possibility, but it seems as much of a long shot as it did two weeks ago. ... Add the Yankees and Braves to the possible Mark DeRosa destinations. ... Credit new pitching coach Rick Knapp, catcher Gerald Laird and an improved infield defense, as much as newcomers Edwin Jackson and Rick ..."
Around the majors
Comment
May 30
SI.com
 
"Rangers owner Tom Hicks' decision to put a majority stake in the team up for sale should not be shocking in light of all the financial reverses he has suffered within the past few years, and the contracts of Alex Rodriguez, Chan Ho Park and Kevin Millwood are the least of it. Hicks is in the TV business, which has hit the skids, plus he also purchased the Liverpool soccer team and got crushed (like the rest of the country) in the stock market. Hicks tried hard to win, I give him that. • The Giants are denying that they are dangling Matt Cain. But one competing exec said he wouldn't be stunned if they did dangle Cain, considering they have superb ace Tim Lincecum and lots more young ..."
As Peavy saga drags on, Bedard may become hot commodity
Comment
May 30
SI.com
 
"The Mariners made some early noise with their nice start to the season, but the club could create a much bigger national story as a trader this summer. Unlike a vast majority of teams expected to straddle the buy/sell fence, the now 22-26 Mariners seem to understand their position as a rebuilding team. What's more, they have decent, veteran talent to trade, including front-line, left-handed pitcher Erik Bedard, who should become an increasingly popular trade target. Bedard's value on the market could depend in part on Jake Peavy's desires and some other teams' decisions regarding whether to shop their starters (for instance, Cleveland and Cliff Lee) but regardless of what happens with the ..."
Phillies' hitting potent, but rotation needs addressing
Comment
May 30
Chicago Tribune
 
"As was the case in most of the 1980s, this is proving to be a dynasty-free decade in baseball. There wasn't a lot of talk about the Philadelphia Phillies or Tampa Bay Rays being capable of a run after they went to the World Series in October, and the three-tiered playoff system makes for long odds against any except the most dominant teams. Two months in, though, don't count out the Phillies. They are going to be really dangerous if they ever sort out their starting pitching. Charlie Manuel's defending champs had managed to lead the National League East eight days in a row before slipping a half-game behind the Mets entering the weekend. They did this despite a starting rotation with a ..."
Cleveland Indians Drop David Dellucci; recall Rafael Perez
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May 29
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"David Dellucci, the man Indians bloggers loved to hate, has been designated for assignment to make room for left-hander Rafael Perez. Dellucci, for whatever reason, became a symbol for everything that has gone wrong with the Indians over the last three years. The Indians signed the veteran outfielder to a three-year $11.5 million deal before the 2007 season, but he had trouble staying healthy and productive. Perez, one of the big reasons that the Indians are in last place in the AL Central, was sent to Class AAA Columbus on May 6 after a horrible start out of the pen. He's been undergoing repairs ever since. Perez went 1-0 with two saves in nine scoreless innings at Columbus. When the ..."
Travis Hafner might return on Monday from disabled list
Comment
May 28
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"The players keep coming and going for the Indians, and there's no end in sight. The next big move will come when designated hitter Travis Hafner is scheduled to rejoin the Indians on Monday. He has to play three straight games with Class AAA Columbus today, Friday and Saturday to make that happen. "He took batting practice here today and Tuesday and looked good," said manager Eric Wedge. "His swing looked free and easy. If he can handle the volume of at bats for three days in a row, and all goes well, we'll have him back up here." Hafner's rehab assignment was interrupted Sunday at Columbus when he swung at a pitch and, in Hafner's words, "a rib head came out of place." A chiropractor was ..."
Trade winds begin as a breeze
Comment
May 27
Yahoo! Sports
 
"Last week's Jake Peavy(notes) near-trade demonstrated that not only will the Padres' ace dictate his relocation terms, but that the annual swapping season will heat up well before the July 31 trading deadline. Here are some developments to watch in the coming days and weeks: • The New York Mets retain keen interest in Washington Nationals first baseman Nick Johnson(notes), to the point where the Nationals have scouts watching the Mets' Triple-A team in Buffalo, N.Y., and Double-A team in Binghamton, N.Y., evaluating pitchers Jon Niese, Mike Antonini and Eddie Kunz(notes) among others. The Mets need a first baseman because Carlos Delgado(notes) could be out for two months after hip surgery. ..."
Indians search to bolster pitching staff
Comment
May 25
Akron Beacon Journal
 
"After a substandard performance by David Huff Saturday night, Indians manager Eric Wedge feels he has two openings in the rotation to fill. ''I think Jeremy Sowers will pitch in one of those games,'' he said today. ''It's a matter of how we line up during the week as to when.'' Anthony Reyes' elbow injury created an opening for a starter on Wednesday, and Wedge hasn't determined whether Huff will get another start. ''I haven't decided,'' Wedge said. ''I talked to [GM] Mark [Shapiro] about it this morning.'' If Huff is sent back to Triple-A Columbus, there are few viable alternatives, though in Huff's two big-league starts, he did not set the bar very high, giving up 13 runs in 62/3 ..."
Payroll concern limits Cleveland Indians' trade options
Comment
May 24
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"Give Kenny Williams credit for taking a chance on San Diego's Jake Peavy. The White Sox GM never has been afraid to make a deal, and he knows the clock is running on a roster that has a lot of veterans. The AL Central might still be wide open, but Detroit has won seven straight games (through Friday), and its pitching staff is hitting its stride, especially in the bullpen with Joel Zumaya and closer Fernando Rodney. GM Mark Shapiro also is trying to help the Indians with trades, but not on that scale. Peavy, signed through 2012 with a club option for 2013, is making $9 million this year, $15 million in 2010, $16 million in 2011 and $17 million in 2012. Shapiro will talk about anybody ..."
Desperate for pitching, the Indians won't pay any cost as season slips away
Comment
May 24
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"Give Kenny Williams credit for taking a chance on San Diego's Jake Peavy. The White Sox GM has never been afraid to make a deal, and he knows the clock is running on a roster that has a lot of veterans. The AL Central may still be wide open, but Detroit has won seven straight and its pitching staff -- especially in the bullpen with Joel Zumaya and closer Fernando Rodney -- is hitting its stride. GM Mark Shapiro is also trying to help the Indians with trades, but not on that scale. Peavy, signed through 2012, with a club options for 2013, is making $9 million this year, $15 million in 2010, $16 million in 2011 and $17 million in 2012. Shapiro will talk about almost anybody on the 25-man ..."
Cleveland fielding offers for versatile DeRosa
Comment
May 20
SI.com
 
"Indians third baseman Mark DeRosa is one of the first veterans to hit the trade block. Cleveland is now fielding offers for the versatile DeRosa, league sources say. The Indians are looking mainly for pitchers who can help them now. Although they are off to their second straight horrible start, the Indians are apparently not close to giving up hope in a tight AL Central. Pitching has been their main problem in their 14-26 start (8 1/2 games back from the division-leading Tigers). The Mets are one possibility for DeRosa, since the versatile 34-year-old could play first base, but it's believed Nick Johnson tops their wish list, with Aubrey Huff or possibly Russell Branyan likely ahead of ..."
As Tribe keeps laboring, the trade talks keep swirling
Comment
May 20
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"Seven weeks of bad baseball have made the Indians the subject of several trade rumors. Boston reportedly is interested in Victor Martinez to help carry the offensive load because of a slumping David Ortiz. It's been speculated that the Mets may go after Mark DeRosa to help replace injured first baseman Carlos Delgado. Cliff Lee, last year's Cy Young winner, is said to be on several contenders' radar in anticipation of a deal at the trading deadline. GM Mark Shapiro is talking to general managers, but it's not about subtracting players in preparation for next year. "We're doing everything we can to get better for this year," said Shapiro. Said manager Eric Wedge, "I've heard that talk ..."
Cleveland Indians GM Mark Shapiro sticking with manager Eric Wedge
Comment
May 13
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"General Manager Mark Shapiro admits things are bad with the Indians, but not bad enough to fire manager Eric Wedge. "What I can tell you is that I believe no one cares more about these players or this organization than Eric Wedge," Shapiro said before Tuesday night's game against the Chicago White Sox. "I feel strongly that he's making every effort to move this in a positive direction." What if the Indians are still in last place in the American League Central in June or July? "I'm not thinking about June and July," Shapiro said. "I don't have the luxury. We've got to think about May and tonight and tomorrow night. "What makes players, coaches and managers successful is taking it one ..."
Manager Eric Wedge thinking the unthinkable -- moving Sizemore out of the leadoff spot
Comment
May 12
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"It has been a question that manager Eric Wedge has always brushed aside like a cobweb. No, he would never consider moving Grady Sizemore out of the leadoff spot. But the question Wedge usually responded to went like this, "Why not move Sizemore down in the order to take advantage of his power and run production?" Now with the Indians and Sizemore locked in dueling slumps, Wedge actually indicated that such a move could be in the works. "Right now, we have to consider everything," said Wedge before the Indians opened a three-game series against Chicago on Monday night. "I don't want you just to isolate on that, but we are considering everything. "Just giving you that answer right now, is ..."
Source: Indians intend to sign Vizcaino
Comment
May 8
Foxsports.com
 
"The Indians, desperate to bolster their bullpen, intend to sign right-hander Luis Vizcaino, according to a major-league source. Vizcaino, released by the Cubs, will either join the Indians immediately or report to the minors for several tune-up appearances. The Indians' 6.65 bullpen ERA is the second-highest in the American League. Three of their pitchers — starter Jeremy Sowers and relievers Masa Kobayashi and Matt Herges — combined to allow the Red Sox to score 12 runs without recording an out in a 13-3 loss in Boston on Thursday."
Cliff Lee trade not even on radar
Comment
April 24
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"General Manager Mark Shapiro didn't read anything inflammatory in an Internet story saying the Indians might trade Cliff Lee if they fall out of contention. Hey, he's the guy who traded the Tribe's previous Cy Young winner, CC Sabathia, last year under similar circumstances. Yet, there was one thing Shapiro wanted to get straight. Lee, the 2008 Cy Young winner, isn't going anywhere right now. "I'm not even thinking about that," said Shapiro, following the Indians' 5-2 come-from-behind victory over the Royals on Thursday. "My focus is on us having a contending season and Cliff having a great season. I think the two go hand-in-hand." Late in spring training, Shapiro told Lee that he could ..."
Manny Ramirez would love second shot with Indians
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April 13
USA Today
 
"Manny Ramirez will be back in Los Angeles Monday to renew his love affair with the city, but before his career ends he hopes to be reunited with his first love: the Cleveland Indians."I would like to play for Cleveland one more time, to go back where I started," said Ramirez, with the Dodgers playing their home opener Monday against the San Francisco Giants at Dodger Stadium. "I have so many good memories there, why not? "I think to go back where you started is everyone's dream." Ramirez, 37, who spent the first 10 years of his career in the Indians organization, shared his sentiments this spring with Chicago White Sox DH Jim Thome. They were teammates in Cleveland from 1993 to 2000, but ..."
Indians' Westbrook pleased with progress, hopes for June return
Comment
April 3
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"Jake Westbrook said his goodbyes Thursday morning in a locker room that he has committed to memory. The Indians, the healthy ones, were dressed in suits and ties. They were boarding a bus at 9:45 a.m. to play one last Cactus League game against the Cubs. Then there was a flight to Houston for exhibition games Friday night and Saturday before a quick flight to Dallas to open the season Monday in Arlington against the Rangers. Westbrook wouldn't be going, which is why he was saying goodbye. He shook hands with Josh Barfield. Gave Jhonny Peralta a hug. Walked over to rookie Trevor Crowe, going to the big leagues for the first time, and wished him well. He talked to Kelly Shoppach, Cliff Lee ..."
David Dellucci (strained calf) says he'll rejoin Tribe in late April
Comment
April 3
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"David Dellucci, who lost a spot on the Indians' Opening Day roster because of a strained left calf, thinks he could be ready to play again in late April. "I'll probably be here for a couple of weeks and then I'll rehab at [Class AAA] Columbus," said Dellucci on Thursday morning. "After that, I should be ready." Dellucci came to camp with stitches in his left thumb. He caught it in the rear door of his trailer, but kiddingly told reporters he'd been bitten by an alligator while saving a boy's life. There was no kidding around about Dellucci's latest injury. "I did it coming around first base against the Angels [on March 26] in the fifth inning," said Dellucci. "I felt it, but I stayed in ..."
Cleveland Indians tightening focus on battle for final spots on 25-man roster
Comment
March 28
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"It's decision time in the bullpen and on the bench for the Indians. The last two roster spots will be filled in the next few days. The 13th position player could be announced as early as Saturday. A decision on the seventh and final bullpen spot is expected to be made before the Indians break camp Thursday. Josh Barfield, Tony Graffanino and Trevor Crowe are the leading candidates to be manager Eric Wedge's final position player. Chris Gimenez, another versatile player, has had a great spring, but he probably needs more time at Class AAA Columbus. In the bullpen, the leading contenders are left-hander Zach Jackson and right-hander Vinnie Chulk. They'll be on display Saturday when the ..."
If the Yankees come calling for Andy Marte, the Indians will listen
Comment
March 5
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"Could Alex Rodriguez's disappointment be Andy Marte's ticket out of Cleveland? ESPN is reporting that Rodriguez, third baseman for the New York Yankees, will need surgery on his right hip to remove a cyst. The surgery could sideline him for at least 10 weeks. The Yankees backup third baseman is Cody Ransom, 33, who played 33 games for them last year. GM Mark Shapiro said the Yankees have not called about Marte. Shapiro added, "If they call, we'll listen." Marte has become dead wood in Cleveland. He flopped last season after being given the third base job following the July trade of Casey Blake to the Dodgers. This spring the Indians designated him for assignment after making a deal with ..."
Back in the swing? After a tumultuous 2008, Indians' LaPorta looking for a calm, successful '09
Comment
February 17
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"Things are just starting to slow down for Matt LaPorta. Not only has his head stopped hurting, it's stopped spinning. His heart, however, still needs to heal. GM Mark Shapiro, in one of the biggest trades in his career, sent Cy Young winner CC Sabathia to Milwaukee on July 7 for LaPorta, Zach Jackson, Michael Brantley and Rob Bryson. LaPorta, the seventh player taken overall in the 2007 draft, with star power and a home-run swing, was the key to the deal. Three days after LaPorta went from Milwaukee's Class AA Huntsville club to Class AA Akron, his grandfather died of lung cancer in Florida. Clark Cornett listened to every one of LaPorta's games at the University of Florida and in the ..."
Rockies joining Benson viewing party
Comment
January 22
MLB.com
 
"The Rockies are one of at least seven teams who will spend Saturday in Phoenix looking at veteran pitcher Kris Benson, who finished last season in the Minors healthy after having missed 2007 with a shoulder injury that required surgery. In addition to the Rockies, Benson, 34, will be watched by the Dodgers, D-Backs, Rangers, Indians, Padres and Cardinals, and a few other teams are considering attending, his agent, Gregg Clifton, said Thursday morning. The Rockies have spent the offseason building rotation depth, and could be looking for one more pitcher to add to the mix. The Rockies have also expressed interest in another experienced right-hander, Josh Fogg, a member of the rotation that ..."
Pirates reach out to Martinez
Comment
January 17
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
 
"The Pirates have had contact with Pedro Martinez, one of the most prominent names among free-agent pitchers, and would be interested if the price is right. But talks solely have been exploratory to this point. Martinez, 37, has been limited to 48 starts the past three seasons because of injury. He went 5-6 with a 5.61 ERA for the New York Mets last season. He is believed to be seeking a $7 million salary, a figure above what the Pirates would be willing to pay, and has told reporters that he would prefer to return to the Mets -- who first will seek other options -- but is open to signing anywhere. Other teams known to have expressed interest are the Cleveland Indians and Florida Marlins. ..."
Pavano signs with Tribe
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January 6
ESPN.com
 
"The Cleveland Indians signed free-agent pitcher Carl Pavano to a one-year contract Tuesday. Financial terms were not disclosed. Sources told ESPN.com that the deal was worth $1.5 million plus incentives. Pavano can earn an additional $5.3 million based on starts and innings pitched. Pavano, 32, is looking to rehabilitate his career after suffering numerous injuries in four seasons with the Yankees. He posted a 9-8 record in 26 starts after signing a four-year, $39.95 million contract with New York in December 2004."
Sources: Tribe interested in Pavano
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January 6
ESPN.com
 
"The Cleveland Indians have emerged as a strong candidate to sign free-agent pitcher Carl Pavano, several baseball sources told ESPN.com. Pavano, 32, is looking to rehabilitate his career after suffering numerous injuries in four seasons with the Yankees. He posted a 9-8 record in 26 starts after signing a four-year, $39.95 million contract with New York in December 2004. It's believed that Pavano is looking for a contract with a low base salary and incentives based upon his workload. The deal could be similar to Mike Hampton's recent contract with the Houston Astros, which will pay Hampton a guaranteed $2 million and an additional $2 million in potential bonuses. The Florida Marlins have ..."
Clubs interested in Wigginton, Taveras
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December 15
MLB.com
 
"It didn't take long for the apparent bidding to begin on accomplished veterans such as Ty Wigginton and Willy Taveras, both of whom were non-tendered by their respective teams prior to Friday's midnight ET deadline. Wigginton, who was not offered a 2009 contract by the Astros, already has received expressed interest from the Indians, Giants and Pirates, according to La Velle E. Neal III of The Minneapolis Star Tribune, who points to a "well-placed source" for the information. Neal also believes the Twins could get into the bidding for Wigginton, who provides the needed upgrade at third base sought by Minnesota. Wigginton also could cover the Twins as a backup at second base, first base and ..."
Indians' decision on Wood expected Saturday
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December 13
Cleveland Plain Dealer
 
"The Indians are expected to make a decision on closer Kerry Wood on Saturday. They've already agreed to a two-year deal worth an estimated $20 million, but won't make it official until studying the results of Wood's physical. The former Cubs right-hander was examined Thursday in Cleveland. GM Mark Shapiro, after receiving the results of the physical Friday, was expected to make a recommendation to Indians President Paul Dolan. The final decision would rest with Dolan. Wood, 31, has had several major injuries including Tommy John surgery on his right elbow, a torn rotator cuff in his right shoulder and a torn triceps muscle. The former starter moved into the closer's role last season for ..."