The Cleveland Indians Make Their Moves

The Indians have officially signed Michael Bourn. It was interesting to read all the fallout from it on Twitter especially from a former MLB pitcher, Dirk Hayhurst. I agree 100% with what he had to say…

Dirk Hayhurst: ”I worry Indians spend, remain undrawn, and not replenish their weak minors. These signings improve them, but enough to right the ship?”

I don’t follow the Indians that close to really know anything about their minor league affiliates so I entrust in Hayhurst to have that information readily available and it seems like he knows what he’s talking about. I also agree that Bourn was a knee-jerk reaction much like how the Seattle Mariners select free agents and trade away players. Bourn was also holding out for a big contract, too. Are the Indians the right fit for him?

Cleveland also signed Nick Swisher. And this was Hayhurst’s response:

“I still don’t see them accruing enough wins to justify new payroll. I foresee Bourn and Swish traded to contender for prospects in future.”

I couldn’t agree more, people. Swisher may not be long-term. And if he is, I will be utterly shocked. Swisher has major talent, an up beat attitude in the club house, and I think that’s what draws in the organization to sign such a player. If anyone, Cleveland needs a guy like that. I think he just wanted out of New York as well, as he expressed in recent interviews how brutal the bleacher creatures can be out in right field at Yankee Stadium. Swish may be surprised though. Indians fans can probably be just as mean and nasty. People are people. Just ask Josh Hamilton.

The signing of Daisuke Matsuzaka by the Indians was another shocker for me. I thought Dice-K was out of the game and when the Mariners expressed interest in him, I panicked. So I’m glad he’s in Cleveland. Although, it’s just a minor-league signing so don’t get too excited.

Hayhurst: “I also think picking up Daisuke was a total face-palm…”

I couldn’t agree more at any rate. He’s a risk. Even at the minor league level, he’s still an investment with little to no productivity.

Spring training has arrived as all the catchers and pitchers have officially reported today. Happy baseball!