The Tribe, a 2004 Cleveland Indians Dynasty

UngratefulDead · 08-04-2004, 02:38 AM

May 25, 2004

Shapiro explains his move

Mark Shapiro Leaves as Indians GM

General Manager Mark Shapiro of the Cleveland Indians will be leaving his position prior to the 2004 season to pursue his interests as an envoy for baseball throughout the world. Shapiro, who had done an excellent job in building a young player base for the Indians, stressed that his departure was neither a knock by him on the club or vice versa, saying, "I had a great time with Cleveland but I feel that my true calling lies elsewhere, encouraging baseball in other countries." The move came as a surprise as Shapiro had been a fixture in the Cleveland organization both at the major league and minor league level. The 36 year old Shapiro has only good memories of his time in Cleveland and wishes the best of luck to his successor, "Whoever follows me up has a great young club to work with. I feel we can begin to contend this year and will be the team to beat in the AL Central in the near future."

UngratefulDead · 08-04-2004, 03:02 AM

May 27, 2004

Eric Wedge will be staying put

New Manager Named for Cleveland

The void left by the departure of Cleveland Indians GM Mark Shapiro has been filled as a spokesman for the organization named 22 year old Jake Scott as the manager of the Tribe for at least the 2004 season. Scott has had no experience in the baseball world and his signing comes as an obvious surprise. The organization declined to comment on the deal but Scott answered questions for reporters at a press conference. When asked about the future of manager Eric Wedge, Scott was firm in his decision to keep Wedge in his normal position saying, "I don't want this change to be stressful on the team at all, for now at least everyone is going to keep doing what they were under (Mark) Shapiro." When asked about his previous baseball experience, Scott laughed and said that he, quote "played pitcher in T-Ball" but that that was the extend of his experience. While this move is considered completely insane by sports analysts, most Cleveland fans could care less who is pulling the strings as long as they field a team that can win.

Astros02 · 08-04-2004, 03:41 AM

I'm liking it so far, the Indians should be a fun team.

UngratefulDead · 08-04-2004, 03:51 AM

Separated At Birth?

Teammates C.C. Sabathia and Covelli "Coco" Crisp share the same proclivities for off center headwear.

Cleveland Roster Preview

Rotation

C.C. Sabathia - C.C. has proved himself a front-line starter. Not an ideal staff ace as he doesn't really dominate on a regular basis, he is never the less, the most solid starter in the Cleveland organization. Other then a disturbing inability to wear a baseball cap properly, we have no problems with Sabathia.

Jason Davis - Jason put up consistant though, not incredible numbers, with the Tribe last year and has nowhere to go but up. If he reaches the level he is capable of he and Sabathia should be a great 1-2 punch at the top of the rotation.

Jeff D'Amico - A control artist free agent pick up from Pittsburgh is a question mark. When he is good he can be a very solid pitcher, but his focus on off-speed pitches leaves him with little margin for error.

Cliff Lee - Another hard throwing lefty, Lee has a high ceiling but his control problems make him questionable. If he learns to keep the ball in the strike zone he'll be a star.

Jason Stanford - At 27 years old Stanford is no longer a prospect but his excellent numbers at AAA and a September call up last year have earned him a shot in the Cleveland rotation.

Bullpen

Rafael Betancourt - Great performances at both the minor league and major league level last year have earned Betancourt a spot in the Tribe's bullpen. The hard throwing righty has shown a great ability to miss bats posting a 1.05 WHIP last year.

Jack Cressend - Another young reliever who showed flashes of brilliance in the majors last year. Cressend is a good all around pitcher without any glaring weaknesses.

Jose Jimenez - A good groundball pitcher with nice command who's high ERA last year can be attributed to pitching at Coors Field.

Scott Stewart - The only southpaw in Cleveland's bullpen, Stewart has the ability to be one of the better lefty specialists in the league.

Jake Westbrook - The young righthander couldn't quite crack the Indian's rotation this year but is ready to step in if neccessary and will be able to pitch multiple innings out of the bullpen.

David Riske - Though he showed good ability as the closer last year, Riske will start the season setting up for Bob Wickman. He'll be ready to step in if Wickman is unable to rebound from surgery.

Bob Wickman - Returning from Tommy John surgery, Wickman will return to his closers role this season, though he will have to perform to keep it with Riske waiting in the wings.

Lineup

Catchers:

Victor Martinez - The current and future starter for the Indians, Victor Martinez is already an above average contact hitter (especially for a catcher) and power should come as he fills out. He's above average on defense, but nothing to write home about.

Josh Bard - The switch-hitting Bard is a capable back-up and can be counted on to start if Martinez is injured or struggling. He hits lefties better than righties, always something valuable off of the bench.

First Basemen:

Travis Hafner - Hafner is a quality major league bat and provides some power to a Cleveland lineup that lacks any real big boppers. He will be the primary DH for the Tribe.

Ben Broussard - A good hitter with adequate defense, Broussard will play first base against lefties.

Second Basemen:

Ron Belliard - Belliard is viewed mainly as a temporary starter until Brandon Phillips is ready for the majors but he will be given the opportunity to prove otherwise.

John McDonald - A defensive middle infielder, McDonald has never proven any ability to hit major league pitching. He will serve as a backup.

Third Basemen:

Casey Blake - A good all-around player, Blake will start at third against righties and most likely play first against lefties. Casey can hit for power and is a sure-handed defender at third.

Lou Merloni - A backup and utilityman, Merloni is a valuable bat off the bench and will play third against lefties.

Shortstops

Omar Vizquel - One of the better defensive shortstops to ever play the game, Vizquel is in his declining years but can still hit and run the bases.

Left Fielders:

Matt Lawton - Lawton is the starting left fielder for the Indians and is one of my personal favorite underrated players. He has a great eye and good power.

Center Fielders:

Coco Crisp - Crisp shares the same cap alignment difficulties as teammate C.C. Sabathia, but plays a great centerfield and is very fast. He will fight with Alex Escobar for the starting centerfield job.

Alex Escobar - Escobar is as good a defender as Crisp, and though he lacks the ability to hit for as high an average, has more power and a better eye.

Right Fielders:

Jody Gerut - Gerut earned the starting rightfield position last year and is probably the most solid all-around hitter on the team.

Overall I think Cleveland has a great young team, but it lacks real star power. A real ace or a genuine power threat is all the Tribe needs to seriously contend. I see us as a dark horse playoff contender in 2004 but an AL Central powerhouse in the future.

UngratefulDead · 08-04-2004, 03:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Astros02

I'm liking it so far, the Indians should be a fun team.

Thanks for the feedback, I'm looking forward to seeing if guys like Travis Hafner and Victor Martinez can have the breakout seasons they're having in real life.

UngratefulDead · 08-04-2004, 08:48 PM

Grady Sizemore hit above .300 with 16 home runs and 98 RBIs between A and AA last year

Farm Report

Cleveland is rated as having the fourth best minor league system in the majors, though they also have many youngsters at the major league level.

Pitchers

The Tribe has four starting pitchers rated in the Top 100 Prospects

Kieran Mattison - Mattison prospects to be a solid #2 type starter though he will need to work more on avoiding the longball if he wants to reach the majors

Adam Miller - Miller is only 19 years old and a few years away from the majors but he has as high a ceiling as any pitching prospect in the organization.

Fausto Carmona - Carmona already has better control then most major league pitchers and when he can improve his strike-out rate will make a splash in the major league rotation.

Cliff Bartosh - Another control artist, Bartosh is probably the closest to the majors of any of the prospects.

The Indians also have a couple of good relief pitcher prospects

Kazuhito Tadano - Tadano prospects to be a solid all-around reliever. He is one or two years away from the majors

Fernando Cabrera - A similar pitcher to Tadano, Cabrera is probably a bit farther away from the majors then his counterpart.

Position Players

The Indians have two position players in the Top 100 and several more that should make the majors as well.

OF Grady Sizemore - Sizemore has great speed and defense and should mature into a great hitter, either a leadoff man or a middle of the order power threat. He is one or two years away from the majors.

1B Michael Aubrey - Aubrey can also play corner outfield positions and prospects to be a strong hitter with a great eye. He is probably at least two years away from the majors.

2B Brandon Phillips - Phillips was rushed to the majors last year and could probably use another year at AAA to refine his play. He prospects to be an above average hitter with great defense either at second or short.

OF Ryan Ludwick - At 25, Ludwick isn't as much of a prospect but he has shown explosive power. He will need to walk more to justify his strikeout tendancies.

CF Nathan Panther - Besides having a cool name, Panther should be a major league hitter, though not much of a power threat.

COF Jason Cooper - At 23, Cooper is getting a bit old to be playing in A ball, but he shows potential to have 40 home run power. He doesn't play very good defense and looks more like a DH.

OF Brad Snyder - Snyder is already a very good ballplayer for a 21 year old, and has a great eye.

Overall, the Indians have a great farm system, with enough pitching prospects to use some and trade others. Grady Sizemore is a can't miss prospect, and enough of the others should pan out to field a great young team for many years.

UngratefulDead · 08-04-2004, 10:59 PM

March 30, 2004

Jorge Posada rounds the bases following his first inning grand slam

Yankees Roll Over Devil Rays in Japan

The MLB season kicked off officially as the New York Yankees played the Tampa Bay Devil Rays at the Tokyo Dome in Japan. While the Devil Rays were the "home team", the Yankees still played in their traditional pinstripes, famous even in Japan.

The high powered Yankees didn't dissapoint, taking the lead early on with a Jorge Posada grand slam in the first and never looked back. Devil Rays' starter Damian Moss only recorded two outs, walking four and giving up six runs. Kevin Brown got the win for the Bronx Bombers, allowing four runs in six and two thirds innings and striking out four.

The Yankees will play the Devil Rays again tomorrow before returning to the United States for the final two games of the four game set.

sparky · 08-04-2004, 11:11 PM

Lookin good so far. Can't wait to see how these young guys do for u. Good luck.

UngratefulDead · 08-05-2004, 12:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sparky

Lookin good so far. Can't wait to see how these young guys do for u. Good luck.

Thanks for the feedback. This really is one of the best youthful teams around, with the added benefit of being ready to compete (Well, in the AL Central anyway..)

UngratefulDead · 08-05-2004, 12:59 AM

March 31, 2004

Seven in the Seventh Carry Devil Rays To Series Split

The underdog Devil Rays scored seven runs in the seventh inning to carry themselves to a 7-4 victory over Alex Rodriguez and the New York Yankees. Jeremi Gonzelez got the win for the Rays while Mike "Moose" Mussina took the loss for New York.

Jorge Posada hit his second home run in as many days but Alex Rodriguez is 1 for his first 11 in pin stripes. The Yankees and Devil Rays will now head home and play eachother two more times, and the other teams in Major League Baseball will also begin their seasons.

UngratefulDead · 08-05-2004, 02:03 AM

April 5th, 2004

Indians pitcher C.C. Sabathia tries to regain his composure after hitting Corey Koskie.

Twins Out-Duel Indians in Opener
Minnesota 5, Cleveland 1

C.C. Sabathia struggled with his control early, hitting the first batter of the game and allowing him to score on a wild pitch. He regained his composure and pitched a strong game, but Cleveland's offense couldn't get anything going against Twins ace Johan Santana, and the bullpen couldn't keep it close.

Sabathia pitched seven plus innings allowing three runs on six hits and striking out seven. He left after giving up a leadoff triple to Joe Mauer in the seventh. The Tribe's offense was lackluster, only producing five hits and only reaching second base twice (Omar Vizquel both times, on a double and a stolen base).

The Indians continue their series against the Twins tomorrow when right hander Jason Davis will take on Brad Radke.

UngratefulDead · 08-05-2004, 03:18 AM

Cleveland at Minnesota Series

Game 1: Cleveland 1, Minnesota 5
Game 2: Cleveland 2, Minnesota 6
Game 3: Cleveland 4, Minnesota 6

Game 2
Jason Davis struggled to miss bats in the second game of the series, allowing thirteen hits and five runs in six innings. Cleveland's offense was again unable to produce runs, scoring only one. Ben Broussard had two doubles and three hits, but Twins starter Brad Radke was able to pitch out of jams surrendering only one run in seven and a third. Twins rookie Joe Mauer has been unstoppable in his first major league season, going five for seven in two games. Victor Martinez has been great of defense, gunning down four of six would-be basestealers.

Game 3
Twins DH Matt LeCroy hit two home runs and Doug Mientkiewicz had one as well as Minnesota completed a three game sweep of the Indians. Cliff Bartosh struck out eight in six innings but surrendered four runs. Scott Stewart struggled in his third day of use out of the bullpen giving up two runs in two thirds of an inning. Darren Riske, still fighting for the closer job was stellar striking out three in one and a third. Jody Geirut hit the Indians first home run of the year, a 420 foot bomb to dead center field, but the rest of the Indians offense was lackluster.

The Indians continue their string of games against division rivals as they head to Kauffman Stadium to take on the Kansas City Royals.

UngratefulDead · 08-05-2004, 09:38 PM

April 10, 2004

Cleveland first baseman Casey Blake bobbles the routine grounder that would have ended the game.

Casey the Goat? Cleveland Drops a Close One
Kansas City 5, Cleveland 4

In a game that would assure the Tribe at least a series split, Indians first bagger Casey Blake bobbled a routine grounder off the bat of Byron Gettis in the bottom of the ninth that allowed a run to score. The Royals later won in the eleventh when Gettis hit a single off of Scott Stewart, plating Desi Relaford.

The game had been a close duel between southpaws C.C. Sabathia and Darrel May with the score tied 3-3 until the ninth inning. In the top of the ninth, Travis Hafner lead off with a double, moved to third on a groundout, and scored on a Matt Lawton sacrifice fly. Brought in for his first save opportunity of the year, Bob Wickman allowed a single to Tony Graffanino. Graffinino was on third base, with two outs, when Wickman induced Royals rookie Gettis to hit a weak grounder to first base. Blake appeared to have the ball in his glove, but it wobbled out allowing the run to score.

Blake couldn't be reached for comment after the game, but Royals rookie Byron Gettis was thrilled after collecting his first hit; the game winner. "I'm just glad that we could come through and win this game. We caught a break in the ninth, and we didn't waste it," said Bettis.

UngratefulDead · 08-05-2004, 09:38 PM

Cleveland (0-3) at Kansas City (1-1) Series

Game 1: Cleveland 11, Kansas City 6
Game 2: Cleveland 3, Kansas City 8
Game 3: Cleveland 4, Kansas City 5
Game 4: Cleveland 4, Kansas City 2

Game 1
Cleveland's bats really came alive in the first game of the series. Starter Jeff D'Amico struggled early, surrendering four runs in the first inning, but Cleveland came back, scoring three in the second, third, and fourth. Travis Hafner ripped two home runs, one of them a 457 foot bomb that first put Cleveland on the board. Matt Lawton and Ben Broussard also homered for the Tribe and the team pounded out a total of 18 hits. D'Amico got it back together after the first, pitching seven strong. Juan Gonzalez had two home runs for the Royals.

Game 2
Kansas City takes the second game of the series behind a strong pitching effort from Kevin Appier. Cleveland starter Jason Stanford got knocked around giving up seven runs on seven hits and five walks in three and two thirds innings. Tony Graffanino went 4 for 4 with a walk and scored four runs for the Royals. Ben Broussard continued his hot streak going 2 for 4 to keep his season batting average thus far over .500. Bob Wickman didn't look sharp pitching just to get some work, surrendering a run on two hits in his inning of work.

Game 4
After blowing the game the previous night, Casey Blake won the game tonight, his tie breaking two run home run in the eighth inning giving the Indians the boost they needed to leave Kansas City with a series split. Blake went 3 for 4 with three RBIs and the Indians won a close 4 to 2 contest. Jason Davis was brilliant pitching eight innings and allowing only two runs while fanning four. Royals starter Kyle Snyder matched Davis pitch for pitch but was lifted in the eight after giving up a leadoff single to Jody Gerut. Reliever Curtis Leskanic retired the first two batters he faced and was ahead of Blake 0-2 when he surrendered the opposite field blast.

YankeeFanatic04 · 08-05-2004, 09:54 PM

Looks like a dandy of A dynasty.

UngratefulDead · 08-05-2004, 09:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by YankeeFanatic04

Looks like a dandy of A dynasty.

Thanks.

Now if only I can start winning some games..

UngratefulDead · 08-05-2004, 11:36 PM

April 12, 2004

The slumping Victor Martinez got his first extra base hit of the year; a two run double in the fourth

Happy Homecoming for Tribe
Cleveland 10, Minnesota 1

The Cleveland Indians played their home opener before a crowd of more than 30,000 fans, and sent every one of them home happy. The Indians season had begun on a rough note, a three game sweep by division rival Minnesota, but had split the previous series with the Royals and were starting to heat up. Everything went right in this game, except for a 49 minute rain delay, and the Indians blasted the Twins 10-1. The Tribe pounded out 14 hits, including four doubles, and held the Twins to only three of their own. Cleveland starter Cliff Bartosh didn't give up a hit until the fifth, but left in the sixth, feeling the effects of the rain delay. Minnesota's starter, Brad Radke, didn't make it through the fourth surrendering six runs, three of them earned. Twins rookie Joe Mauer made two costly errors, twice making wild throws into centerfield on stolen bases, allowing a run to score each time. Alex Escobar started in right field, resting regular Jody Geirut.

steveman211 · 08-06-2004, 12:58 AM

Payback time?

UngratefulDead · 08-06-2004, 01:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steveman211

Payback time?

Damn straight

UngratefulDead · 08-06-2004, 01:46 AM

Minnesota (3-3) at Cleveland (2-5) Series 2

Game 1: Minnesota 1, Cleveland 10
Game 2: Minnesota 10, Cleveland 1
Game 3: Minnesota 4, Cleveland 9

Game 2: In a reversal of roles, the Twins dominated the Indians, beating them by the same score they lost by the previous day. Jeff D'Amico couldn't fool anybody, getting tagged for five runs in his six innings of work, and a costly error by Casey Blake at third led to a four run ninth inning for the Twins. The Tribe didn't manage it's first hit until the fifth inning and was only able to score one run on three hits off of Minnesota starter Carlos Silva. Corey Coskie had watchers thinking cycle after he lead the game off with a home run and tripled in his next at-bat, but he didn't collect any more hits.

Game 3: The final game of the three game set went to Cleveland. They led from the second inning onward, though the game remained close until a bases loaded double by Casey Blake in the seventh put it away. C.C. Sabathia was stellar, striking out thirteen twins in his eight innings of work and only allowing three runs. The Indians had ten hits, one of them cleanup hitter Ben Broussard's third home run of the year. Minnesota starter Kyle Lohse was chased after allowing five runs in his two innings of work.

08-04-2004, 02:38 AM	#1
UngratefulDead Banned Join Date: May 2004 Location: Bay Area Posts: 3,415	The Tribe, a 2004 Cleveland Indians Dynasty May 25, 2004 Shapiro explains his move Mark Shapiro Leaves as Indians GM General Manager Mark Shapiro of the Cleveland Indians will be leaving his position prior to the 2004 season to pursue his interests as an envoy for baseball throughout the world. Shapiro, who had done an excellent job in building a young player base for the Indians, stressed that his departure was neither a knock by him on the club or vice versa, saying, "I had a great time with Cleveland but I feel that my true calling lies elsewhere, encouraging baseball in other countries." The move came as a surprise as Shapiro had been a fixture in the Cleveland organization both at the major league and minor league level. The 36 year old Shapiro has only good memories of his time in Cleveland and wishes the best of luck to his successor, "Whoever follows me up has a great young club to work with. I feel we can begin to contend this year and will be the team to beat in the AL Central in the near future." Last edited by UngratefulDead; 08-04-2004 at 11:02 PM.

08-04-2004, 03:51 AM	#4
UngratefulDead Banned Join Date: May 2004 Location: Bay Area Posts: 3,415	Separated At Birth? Teammates C.C. Sabathia and Covelli "Coco" Crisp share the same proclivities for off center headwear. Cleveland Roster Preview Rotation C.C. Sabathia - C.C. has proved himself a front-line starter. Not an ideal staff ace as he doesn't really dominate on a regular basis, he is never the less, the most solid starter in the Cleveland organization. Other then a disturbing inability to wear a baseball cap properly, we have no problems with Sabathia. Jason Davis - Jason put up consistant though, not incredible numbers, with the Tribe last year and has nowhere to go but up. If he reaches the level he is capable of he and Sabathia should be a great 1-2 punch at the top of the rotation. Jeff D'Amico - A control artist free agent pick up from Pittsburgh is a question mark. When he is good he can be a very solid pitcher, but his focus on off-speed pitches leaves him with little margin for error. Cliff Lee - Another hard throwing lefty, Lee has a high ceiling but his control problems make him questionable. If he learns to keep the ball in the strike zone he'll be a star. Jason Stanford - At 27 years old Stanford is no longer a prospect but his excellent numbers at AAA and a September call up last year have earned him a shot in the Cleveland rotation. Bullpen Rafael Betancourt - Great performances at both the minor league and major league level last year have earned Betancourt a spot in the Tribe's bullpen. The hard throwing righty has shown a great ability to miss bats posting a 1.05 WHIP last year. Jack Cressend - Another young reliever who showed flashes of brilliance in the majors last year. Cressend is a good all around pitcher without any glaring weaknesses. Jose Jimenez - A good groundball pitcher with nice command who's high ERA last year can be attributed to pitching at Coors Field. Scott Stewart - The only southpaw in Cleveland's bullpen, Stewart has the ability to be one of the better lefty specialists in the league. Jake Westbrook - The young righthander couldn't quite crack the Indian's rotation this year but is ready to step in if neccessary and will be able to pitch multiple innings out of the bullpen. David Riske - Though he showed good ability as the closer last year, Riske will start the season setting up for Bob Wickman. He'll be ready to step in if Wickman is unable to rebound from surgery. Bob Wickman - Returning from Tommy John surgery, Wickman will return to his closers role this season, though he will have to perform to keep it with Riske waiting in the wings. Lineup Catchers: Victor Martinez - The current and future starter for the Indians, Victor Martinez is already an above average contact hitter (especially for a catcher) and power should come as he fills out. He's above average on defense, but nothing to write home about. Josh Bard - The switch-hitting Bard is a capable back-up and can be counted on to start if Martinez is injured or struggling. He hits lefties better than righties, always something valuable off of the bench. First Basemen: Travis Hafner - Hafner is a quality major league bat and provides some power to a Cleveland lineup that lacks any real big boppers. He will be the primary DH for the Tribe. Ben Broussard - A good hitter with adequate defense, Broussard will play first base against lefties. Second Basemen: Ron Belliard - Belliard is viewed mainly as a temporary starter until Brandon Phillips is ready for the majors but he will be given the opportunity to prove otherwise. John McDonald - A defensive middle infielder, McDonald has never proven any ability to hit major league pitching. He will serve as a backup. Third Basemen: Casey Blake - A good all-around player, Blake will start at third against righties and most likely play first against lefties. Casey can hit for power and is a sure-handed defender at third. Lou Merloni - A backup and utilityman, Merloni is a valuable bat off the bench and will play third against lefties. Shortstops Omar Vizquel - One of the better defensive shortstops to ever play the game, Vizquel is in his declining years but can still hit and run the bases. Left Fielders: Matt Lawton - Lawton is the starting left fielder for the Indians and is one of my personal favorite underrated players. He has a great eye and good power. Center Fielders: Coco Crisp - Crisp shares the same cap alignment difficulties as teammate C.C. Sabathia, but plays a great centerfield and is very fast. He will fight with Alex Escobar for the starting centerfield job. Alex Escobar - Escobar is as good a defender as Crisp, and though he lacks the ability to hit for as high an average, has more power and a better eye. Right Fielders: Jody Gerut - Gerut earned the starting rightfield position last year and is probably the most solid all-around hitter on the team. Overall I think Cleveland has a great young team, but it lacks real star power. A real ace or a genuine power threat is all the Tribe needs to seriously contend. I see us as a dark horse playoff contender in 2004 but an AL Central powerhouse in the future. Last edited by UngratefulDead; 08-04-2004 at 04:13 AM.

08-04-2004, 10:59 PM	#7
UngratefulDead Banned Join Date: May 2004 Location: Bay Area Posts: 3,415	March 30, 2004 Jorge Posada rounds the bases following his first inning grand slam Yankees Roll Over Devil Rays in Japan The MLB season kicked off officially as the New York Yankees played the Tampa Bay Devil Rays at the Tokyo Dome in Japan. While the Devil Rays were the "home team", the Yankees still played in their traditional pinstripes, famous even in Japan. The high powered Yankees didn't dissapoint, taking the lead early on with a Jorge Posada grand slam in the first and never looked back. Devil Rays' starter Damian Moss only recorded two outs, walking four and giving up six runs. Kevin Brown got the win for the Bronx Bombers, allowing four runs in six and two thirds innings and striking out four. The Yankees will play the Devil Rays again tomorrow before returning to the United States for the final two games of the four game set. Last edited by UngratefulDead; 08-04-2004 at 11:03 PM.

08-05-2004, 12:59 AM	#10
UngratefulDead Banned Join Date: May 2004 Location: Bay Area Posts: 3,415	March 31, 2004 Seven in the Seventh Carry Devil Rays To Series Split The underdog Devil Rays scored seven runs in the seventh inning to carry themselves to a 7-4 victory over Alex Rodriguez and the New York Yankees. Jeremi Gonzelez got the win for the Rays while Mike "Moose" Mussina took the loss for New York. Jorge Posada hit his second home run in as many days but Alex Rodriguez is 1 for his first 11 in pin stripes. The Yankees and Devil Rays will now head home and play eachother two more times, and the other teams in Major League Baseball will also begin their seasons. Last edited by UngratefulDead; 08-05-2004 at 11:24 PM.

08-05-2004, 02:03 AM	#11
UngratefulDead Banned Join Date: May 2004 Location: Bay Area Posts: 3,415	April 5th, 2004 Indians pitcher C.C. Sabathia tries to regain his composure after hitting Corey Koskie. Twins Out-Duel Indians in Opener Minnesota 5, Cleveland 1 C.C. Sabathia struggled with his control early, hitting the first batter of the game and allowing him to score on a wild pitch. He regained his composure and pitched a strong game, but Cleveland's offense couldn't get anything going against Twins ace Johan Santana, and the bullpen couldn't keep it close. Sabathia pitched seven plus innings allowing three runs on six hits and striking out seven. He left after giving up a leadoff triple to Joe Mauer in the seventh. The Tribe's offense was lackluster, only producing five hits and only reaching second base twice (Omar Vizquel both times, on a double and a stolen base). The Indians continue their series against the Twins tomorrow when right hander Jason Davis will take on Brad Radke. Last edited by UngratefulDead; 08-06-2004 at 01:49 AM.

08-04-2004, 03:02 AM	#2
UngratefulDead Banned Join Date: May 2004 Location: Bay Area Posts: 3,415	May 27, 2004 Eric Wedge will be staying put New Manager Named for Cleveland The void left by the departure of Cleveland Indians GM Mark Shapiro has been filled as a spokesman for the organization named 22 year old Jake Scott as the manager of the Tribe for at least the 2004 season. Scott has had no experience in the baseball world and his signing comes as an obvious surprise. The organization declined to comment on the deal but Scott answered questions for reporters at a press conference. When asked about the future of manager Eric Wedge, Scott was firm in his decision to keep Wedge in his normal position saying, "I don't want this change to be stressful on the team at all, for now at least everyone is going to keep doing what they were under (Mark) Shapiro." When asked about his previous baseball experience, Scott laughed and said that he, quote "played pitcher in T-Ball" but that that was the extend of his experience. While this move is considered completely insane by sports analysts, most Cleveland fans could care less who is pulling the strings as long as they field a team that can win. Last edited by UngratefulDead; 08-04-2004 at 11:03 PM.

08-04-2004, 03:41 AM	#3
Astros02 All Star Reserve Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Houston Posts: 506	I'm liking it so far, the Indians should be a fun team.

08-04-2004, 08:48 PM	#6
UngratefulDead Banned Join Date: May 2004 Location: Bay Area Posts: 3,415	Grady Sizemore hit above .300 with 16 home runs and 98 RBIs between A and AA last year Farm Report Cleveland is rated as having the fourth best minor league system in the majors, though they also have many youngsters at the major league level. Pitchers The Tribe has four starting pitchers rated in the Top 100 Prospects Kieran Mattison - Mattison prospects to be a solid #2 type starter though he will need to work more on avoiding the longball if he wants to reach the majors Adam Miller - Miller is only 19 years old and a few years away from the majors but he has as high a ceiling as any pitching prospect in the organization. Fausto Carmona - Carmona already has better control then most major league pitchers and when he can improve his strike-out rate will make a splash in the major league rotation. Cliff Bartosh - Another control artist, Bartosh is probably the closest to the majors of any of the prospects. The Indians also have a couple of good relief pitcher prospects Kazuhito Tadano - Tadano prospects to be a solid all-around reliever. He is one or two years away from the majors Fernando Cabrera - A similar pitcher to Tadano, Cabrera is probably a bit farther away from the majors then his counterpart. Position Players The Indians have two position players in the Top 100 and several more that should make the majors as well. OF Grady Sizemore - Sizemore has great speed and defense and should mature into a great hitter, either a leadoff man or a middle of the order power threat. He is one or two years away from the majors. 1B Michael Aubrey - Aubrey can also play corner outfield positions and prospects to be a strong hitter with a great eye. He is probably at least two years away from the majors. 2B Brandon Phillips - Phillips was rushed to the majors last year and could probably use another year at AAA to refine his play. He prospects to be an above average hitter with great defense either at second or short. OF Ryan Ludwick - At 25, Ludwick isn't as much of a prospect but he has shown explosive power. He will need to walk more to justify his strikeout tendancies. CF Nathan Panther - Besides having a cool name, Panther should be a major league hitter, though not much of a power threat. COF Jason Cooper - At 23, Cooper is getting a bit old to be playing in A ball, but he shows potential to have 40 home run power. He doesn't play very good defense and looks more like a DH. OF Brad Snyder - Snyder is already a very good ballplayer for a 21 year old, and has a great eye. Overall, the Indians have a great farm system, with enough pitching prospects to use some and trade others. Grady Sizemore is a can't miss prospect, and enough of the others should pan out to field a great young team for many years.

08-04-2004, 11:11 PM	#8
sparky Minors (Rookie Ball) Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Ohio Posts: 35	Lookin good so far. Can't wait to see how these young guys do for u. Good luck.

08-05-2004, 03:18 AM	#12
UngratefulDead Banned Join Date: May 2004 Location: Bay Area Posts: 3,415	Cleveland at Minnesota Series Game 1: Cleveland 1, Minnesota 5 Game 2: Cleveland 2, Minnesota 6 Game 3: Cleveland 4, Minnesota 6 Game 2 Jason Davis struggled to miss bats in the second game of the series, allowing thirteen hits and five runs in six innings. Cleveland's offense was again unable to produce runs, scoring only one. Ben Broussard had two doubles and three hits, but Twins starter Brad Radke was able to pitch out of jams surrendering only one run in seven and a third. Twins rookie Joe Mauer has been unstoppable in his first major league season, going five for seven in two games. Victor Martinez has been great of defense, gunning down four of six would-be basestealers. Game 3 Twins DH Matt LeCroy hit two home runs and Doug Mientkiewicz had one as well as Minnesota completed a three game sweep of the Indians. Cliff Bartosh struck out eight in six innings but surrendered four runs. Scott Stewart struggled in his third day of use out of the bullpen giving up two runs in two thirds of an inning. Darren Riske, still fighting for the closer job was stellar striking out three in one and a third. Jody Geirut hit the Indians first home run of the year, a 420 foot bomb to dead center field, but the rest of the Indians offense was lackluster. The Indians continue their string of games against division rivals as they head to Kauffman Stadium to take on the Kansas City Royals. Last edited by UngratefulDead; 08-05-2004 at 07:09 PM.

08-05-2004, 09:38 PM	#13
UngratefulDead Banned Join Date: May 2004 Location: Bay Area Posts: 3,415	April 10, 2004 Cleveland first baseman Casey Blake bobbles the routine grounder that would have ended the game. Casey the Goat? Cleveland Drops a Close One Kansas City 5, Cleveland 4 In a game that would assure the Tribe at least a series split, Indians first bagger Casey Blake bobbled a routine grounder off the bat of Byron Gettis in the bottom of the ninth that allowed a run to score. The Royals later won in the eleventh when Gettis hit a single off of Scott Stewart, plating Desi Relaford. The game had been a close duel between southpaws C.C. Sabathia and Darrel May with the score tied 3-3 until the ninth inning. In the top of the ninth, Travis Hafner lead off with a double, moved to third on a groundout, and scored on a Matt Lawton sacrifice fly. Brought in for his first save opportunity of the year, Bob Wickman allowed a single to Tony Graffanino. Graffinino was on third base, with two outs, when Wickman induced Royals rookie Gettis to hit a weak grounder to first base. Blake appeared to have the ball in his glove, but it wobbled out allowing the run to score. Blake couldn't be reached for comment after the game, but Royals rookie Byron Gettis was thrilled after collecting his first hit; the game winner. "I'm just glad that we could come through and win this game. We caught a break in the ninth, and we didn't waste it," said Bettis. Last edited by UngratefulDead; 08-05-2004 at 11:37 PM.

08-05-2004, 09:54 PM	#15
YankeeFanatic04 Minors (Triple A) Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: Brooklyn, New York Posts: 232	Looks like a dandy of A dynasty.

08-05-2004, 11:36 PM	#17
UngratefulDead Banned Join Date: May 2004 Location: Bay Area Posts: 3,415	April 12, 2004 The slumping Victor Martinez got his first extra base hit of the year; a two run double in the fourth Happy Homecoming for Tribe Cleveland 10, Minnesota 1 The Cleveland Indians played their home opener before a crowd of more than 30,000 fans, and sent every one of them home happy. The Indians season had begun on a rough note, a three game sweep by division rival Minnesota, but had split the previous series with the Royals and were starting to heat up. Everything went right in this game, except for a 49 minute rain delay, and the Indians blasted the Twins 10-1. The Tribe pounded out 14 hits, including four doubles, and held the Twins to only three of their own. Cleveland starter Cliff Bartosh didn't give up a hit until the fifth, but left in the sixth, feeling the effects of the rain delay. Minnesota's starter, Brad Radke, didn't make it through the fourth surrendering six runs, three of them earned. Twins rookie Joe Mauer made two costly errors, twice making wild throws into centerfield on stolen bases, allowing a run to score each time. Alex Escobar started in right field, resting regular Jody Geirut. Last edited by UngratefulDead; 08-16-2004 at 03:27 PM.

08-06-2004, 12:58 AM	#18
steveman211 Minors (Triple A) Join Date: Jun 2003 Posts: 245	Payback time?

08-06-2004, 01:46 AM	#20
UngratefulDead Banned Join Date: May 2004 Location: Bay Area Posts: 3,415	Minnesota (3-3) at Cleveland (2-5) Series 2 Game 1: Minnesota 1, Cleveland 10 Game 2: Minnesota 10, Cleveland 1 Game 3: Minnesota 4, Cleveland 9 Game 2: In a reversal of roles, the Twins dominated the Indians, beating them by the same score they lost by the previous day. Jeff D'Amico couldn't fool anybody, getting tagged for five runs in his six innings of work, and a costly error by Casey Blake at third led to a four run ninth inning for the Twins. The Tribe didn't manage it's first hit until the fifth inning and was only able to score one run on three hits off of Minnesota starter Carlos Silva. Corey Coskie had watchers thinking cycle after he lead the game off with a home run and tripled in his next at-bat, but he didn't collect any more hits. Game 3: The final game of the three game set went to Cleveland. They led from the second inning onward, though the game remained close until a bases loaded double by Casey Blake in the seventh put it away. C.C. Sabathia was stellar, striking out thirteen twins in his eight innings of work and only allowing three runs. The Indians had ten hits, one of them cleanup hitter Ben Broussard's third home run of the year. Minnesota starter Kyle Lohse was chased after allowing five runs in his two innings of work.