Comments on: The Indians Watch Vladimir Guerrero and Other Outfielder News

By: Stephanie Liscio

Stephanie Liscio — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 15:41:53 +0000

I’m so disappointed in everyone else, I feel like Guerrero can’t be that bad at this point. I still feel like it will end up being Shelley Duncan getting the starting role for now, while Aaron Cunningham gets the backup role. Ultimately, Canzler still has options, while Cunningham does not. I feel like that will weigh into their decision. (Although I hope I’m wrong).

Crowe actually looked better than most of them when I was in Arizona recently (and he’s having a good spring). The only bad thing is that he usually comes into the game when it’s minor league pitching – so he’s not facing major leaguers necessarily. He’s not on the 40-man at the moment, so they’d have to make a roster move to put him back. I asked someone in the organization once about their plans for Crowe – they told me they saw him as a fourth outfielder. I think he’ll start in Columbus, but could work his way back.

By: Kelly Shedlock

Kelly Shedlock — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:45:18 +0000

What about Trevor Crowe? He’s a good OF. He has speed. He can play LF or CF. He’s played at Progressive so he knows the field. He’s a decent hitter when he plays everyday. I know he is coming off injuries and played very little in 2011, but I think I would rather have him than any of the others. I don’t think the Tribe could get Vlad cheap – which is always a factor with the Tribe. Why not give Crowe another shot?

By: Ryan McCrystal

Ryan McCrystal — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 13:45:32 +0000

I’m not sure the CF issue really factors into the decision. In a pinch, Choo could step in and if Brantley goes down for an extended period of time Carrera probably gets called up.

I’d be OK with Guerrero for the right price. You’d have to also consider the possibility that he improves upon his 2011 season and someone decides to trade for him at the deadline, which probably increases his value for the Tribe.

By: Will McIlroy

Will McIlroy — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 13:25:09 +0000

Remember earlier in Spring Training when Acta said anyone can play LF? Then why is it so hard for us to find one?

Guerrero’s bat might still play on a limited basis although his power stroke took a serious dip last year (HR every 22.17 ABs in 2010, HR every 45.38 ABs in 2011).

The real issue is defense. Does it make sense to play light hitters like Kotchman and Hannahan at the infield corners only to give it away in the OF? Guerrero is a statue and who is the late inning defensive replacement, Duncan?

We also need a reserve who can play CF when Brantley inevitably tweaks something. This rules Canzler out as well. I think Acta wants it to be Cunningham or Spilborghs but neither has hit and Spilborghs’ DP with the tying and winning runs on in the 9th yesterday didn’t help.

Maybe in the end Acta will ditch the Spring numbers and play the guy most likely to succeed (with the best track record). Spilborghs, you’re it. Yikes.