Author: G (Page 32 of 44)

Indians call up Phillips; Look at Reds players

July 9, 2005 / G

The Tribe called up Brandon Phillips from AAA Buffalo, sending Brian Tallet back down. The move might be temporary heading into the All-Star break. After trading Alex Cora, the Indians need to decide who will fill the role of utility infielder. This gives Phillips a chance to show what he can do, though he might be the trade bait used by Shapiro to bring in a right-handed bat.

According to Paul Hoynes, the Indians are looking at several Reds hitters for a possible deal, including third basman Joe Randa and outfielders Wily Mo Pena and Austin Kearns. Either guy would help in right field, though it’s questionable whether either of them would make enough of an impact to an already improving offense. Casey Blake is hitting again, and Aaron Boone had four hits yesterday in the 5-4 loss to the Yankees.

Shapiro has a tough decision to make, but frankly I’m confident he’ll make the right call. He’s done a great job rebuilding this team, and I wouldn’t be disappointed or surprised if he decides against making a move.

Cleveland Indians

Cavs talking to Z

July 4, 2005 / G

Z wants to stay in Cleveland, and new GM Danny Ferry wants to keep him, so now it’s just a matter of money. Hal Lebowitz reported over the weekend that a deal will be wrapped up quickly, and things seem to be progressing after a meeting between Ferry and Z’s agent.

This is a tough call. Z certainly helps the Cavs, but is he the right center for this team over the long run? Would it be better for LeBron to develop with an athletic center that can run the court? As long as Ferry doesn’t break the bank, it probably makes sense to keep him. We’ll see.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Great road trip; Wickman named All-Star

July 4, 2005 / G

With a 9-4 victory over Baltimore, the Indians completed a very successful road trip that has kept them in contention for the wild card. The Tribe took 2 of 3 from Boston and 3 of 4 from Baltimore, two teams that could be competing with the Tribe for that wild card playoff berth. The offense bounced back after getting shut out the night before, as Ben Broussard and Travis Hafner blasted home runs.

Maenwhile, Bob Wickman was the only Indian named to the All-Star team. That’s shame, since guys like Cliff Lee, Grady Sizemore and Travis Hafner also deserved consideration, but Wickman certianly deserves it.

Cleveland Indians

Remembering Rogers and Turner

July 2, 2005 / G

The official Browns web site has a great article remember two great former Browns – Donnie Rogers and Eric Turner. Both men were great safeties for the Browns, and both tragically died before their time. Bill Rees remembers both players that he recruited and coached while at UCLA.

Cleveland Browns

Cavs use LeBron video to make first pitch to Redd

July 2, 2005 / G

ESPN is reporting that the Cavs have made a max offer to Michael Redd. They delivered a video from LeBron James to Redd with the offer immediately after the clock began ticking on the new free agent period. They apparently sent a similar video to Ray Allen.

The Bucks also made a max offer to Redd, meaning their offer will be at least $20 million more than the Cavs are permitted to offer. Many expect Redd to stay with the Bucks, but he did not immediately accept their offer, hopefully leaving the door open for the Cavs.

Update – The Beacon-Journal is reporting that Michael Redd will come in soon for a visit with the Cavs. It looks like Redd is not in a hurry to make a decision, improving the chances that he will select the Cavs. The Cavs just need to make sure that he doesn’t take too long. If he doesn’t commit they should quickly turn thei attention to Ray Allen.