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The evolution of Grady Sizemore
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Grady Sizmore (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
Indians fans are typically one of the most unified voices in the city of Cleveland. They usually keep their thoughts collected as a whole, and don't differ much in opinions on the Indians past and present.
"I thought that the Indians would have one at least World Series in the 90's."
"The Indians would have won the World Series in 1997 if not for Jose Mesa!"
"Albert Bell was robbed of the MVP award in 1995."
"Grady Sizemore needs to be batting lower in the lineup."
The idea of Sizemore batting anywhere but leadoff makes Indians fans dream of an MVP season for the multi-talented centerfielder. Certain sportswriters happen to agree that it is where Sizemore belongs. It's a common thought, but there is one voice of dissent in the matter. It's from Sizemore himself.
"My numbers might be better, but they might not be as good either," Sizemore said. "I've been hitting leadoff my whole career. That's where I've had all my success. I'm comfortable there. I think it's good for this lineup."
Hoynes article presents some strong evidence that instead of outgrowing the leadoff role, Sizemore is actually becoming more accustomed to it. Sizemore's plate discipline has increased, with his walks increasing from 2005 through 2007, and then leveling off in 2008. While his free swinging tendencies don't often mesh up with the traditional values of a leadoff hitter, it's working, so why change it?
Outfield experiment
The Indians have an interesting logjam occuring in the outfield in spring training this season. Expect Shin Soo-Choo to take a starting position, but left field is up for grabs. With the Indians looking to deepen their roster's flexibility, Ryan Garko and Josh Barfield are both taking a crack at learning how to play the outfield.
For Garko, a numbers game at first base means increased versatility is a must. He could lose at bats this year if the Indians let Victor Martinez play first base on a regular basis, and allow Kelly Shoppach to catch. Garko has lost weight in anticipation of the switch, and he could use the help. Garko is not a very nimble athlete, and is a converted catcher. He may have the arm to play in left, but shagging down fly-balls may prove difficult.
For Barfield, trying the outfield, and various other infield spots, is a last ditch effort to make the team. He needs to become the shadow of Mark DeRosa, who despite being acquired to play third base for the Indians, is also going to get a look at the corner outfield spots. Barfield's best hope is that he can adapt to playing centerfield well, should Sizemore suffer an injury that keeps him from playing the field or he gets a day to be the designated hitter.
The battle that will never be
Any time two Cy Young winners take the mound together, it's going to be a great duel. Very rarely do you ever see the reigning Cy Young winners from each league go to the hill the following season, and unfortunately for baseball fans it won't happen again this season.
The Indians start Cactus League play this week against the Giants, and were initially tabbed to have ace Cliff Lee face off with National League Cy Young Tim Linecum, but the matchup won't happen . Lee is going to be held back by the Indians this season from early contests.
Don't lose hope, Tribe fans. Maybe Linecum and Young will faceoff as the starters in the All Star Game this year, or even better in Game 1 of the World Series.
Prospect Watch
Hector Rondon, SP
Bats: R
Throws: R
Jersey #75
6'3"
188 pounds
Rondon is one of the Indians better low level prospects. He has has only reached Class A Kinston, but look for him to start 2009 in AA Akron. He participated in the Futures Game last year at Yankee Stadium. His fastball has good movement, and he's improved his velocity as he has bulked up. He is also being compared to current Indian starter Fausto Carmona, who is known for his great movement on his pitches. At only 20 years old, Rondon needs more seasoning, but he turned on well in the middle of the 2008 seasons. Right now he needs to work on bulking up, and refining his delivery. Some folks are outraged that he is not getting more respect in the national media, while others are already proclaiming him to be a top five prospect for the Indians in 2009.
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