Cleveland Indians: Buyers At The Trade Deadline?
By Ryan Rosko
Is this the year that we see the Cleveland Indians not just stay pat or end up being a seller at the MLB Trade Deadline?
The Cleveland Indians are playing at a high level as they compete for first place in the A.L. Central. Going into today’s game, the Tribe were 0.5 games out of first place.
In previous seasons when the Cleveland Indians would be near or at the top of division, their play ultimately dropped off. When that happened (typically starting at in early to mid June), the .500 (at-best) level of play started and became consistent throughout the rest of the season.
However, this season seems like it is going to be different. Reasons why this season appears to be different, is because of players like starting pitcher Josh Tomlin, shortstop Francisco Lindor, and outfielder Marlon Byrd.
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To maintain their competitiveness, a trade is likely going to be needed. There is no question that fans have a significant level of frustration regarding Cleveland’s approach when adding/signing players.
To improve the Cleveland Indians, the front office will have to part with players (most likely top or mid-level prospects), something they have been hesitant in doing. Who they could acquire in any trade is to be determined.
The unknown of who could become Indians’ targets will be cleared up over the next couple of weeks. There has been rumors of some players, but nothing seems to be serious enough to really consider right now.
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Cleveland does have multiple outfielders and other key players in their minor league system to trade after all. Not all of them will be able to play for the Cleveland Indians once/if they make it to the majors, so a trade does make sense.
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Still, that is easier said than done.
It would be great if the Jacobs family was still owning the team. Cleveland’s former ownership would have made the appropriate moves to take the team to the next level. As ideal as that is, reality trumps all.
The Dolans have not been willing to do much at all when acquiring players, as going the bargain route has been the focus for some time. The 2016 Cleveland Indians have the pieces to take the next step but they may not be able to get the needed help.
Due to the additional resources with depth at certain positions at the big leagues level and quality/quantity in the minor leagues, there is no excuse not to upgrade the team by July 31st. Unfortunately, a crystal ball is not going to be needed to know what will happen.
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Unless the Dolans make a 360 degree turn in their approach to winning, more of the same will continue. Cleveland will have to rely on the players on the roster as well as the occasional player who gets called up post trade deadline.