Tribe Swap Shop, Part One
It was July 8, 2008 and suddenly there was a gigantic hole in the Indians rotation. The biggest pitcher in Cleveland (literally and figuratively) was now a Brewer and the rebuild was officially on.
This trade started it all, and led us to where we are now more than any other roster move. Sabathia went to the Brewers for four prospects, and though his benefit to Milwaukee probably didn’t work out in their favor, as fans we’re just now starting to see the dividends pay off.
Matt LaPorta
The centerpiece of the deal has seen mixed results so far at the major league level, but is certainly an integral part of the Indians short and long-term plans.
The good news for fans is that since receiving everyday playing time (after the Russell Branyan trade, June 27) he is batting .286, .353, .496. His power numbers have been steady as well, he has hit eight doubles, six home runs and driven 20 runners in over that 37 game stretch.
LaPorta is only 25 years old, which leaves him plenty of time to develop more as a hitter and as a first baseman. The Indians have only Wes Hodges at Columbus, and by many estimations he has not panned out as a prospect; meaning LaPorta will be a stalwart in the Indians infield for years to come.
Zack Jackson
One of the main pitchers sent to Cleveland in the deal is already out of the picture. After starting nine starts in 2008 (2-3, 5.60) and one start and two appearances (0-0, 9.35) Jackson was sent to the minors and subsequently traded to the Blue Jays. He is currently pitching for Toronto’s AAA affiliate.
Rob Bryson
The other pitcher included in the deal is still with the Tribe, currently pitching at AA Akron. Bryson has pitched for three teams this season after missing most of last year with shoulder problems. Between Lake County (A), Kinston (A+) and Akron Bryson has and ERA of 2.97 through 27 innings.
He has struck batters out at a rate of 15.3 per nine innings, better than his career average prior to this season. He has managed to keep his WHIP at just 1.119 this year, also in line with his scouting report. Bryson uses his plus fastball and wicked slider to keep games in reach and I would imagine that his abilities could come in handy in the bullpen come 2011.
Michael Brantley
The player-to-be-named-later in this deal was certainly no throw-in or last choice. Because the Brewers made the playoffs in 2008 the Indians had their choice of a few select players, and it seems that they got the man they wanted in Brantley.
After his superb debut last season, Brantley has come up against some growing pains this year. The team has expressed a great deal of faith in his abilities, however, and it seems that Brantley will also be a part of the Indians for a good deal of time.
Since returning from Columbus on August 6 he has raised his batting average by 27 points, while hitting a triple, a home run and driving in three from the lead off spot. Brantley’s speed has yet to be fully seen at the big league level (12 stolen bases this year), but at 23 he has more time than LaPorta to grow as a big league ball player.
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do like the indians did in the late 80′s and find good young ballplayers and sign them to long contracts. some work, some do not. but give them playing time and build confidence. find one (like ny’s swisher) to keep things loose and fun in the clubhouse and enjoy the game!