Transactions

Traded IF Ricky Gutierrez and a big bag of cash to the New York Mets for a PTBNL

Optioned LHRP Cliff Bartosh to Buffalo (AAA)

Assigned RHRP David Lee, OF Ernie Young, RHRP Matt Miller, C Brian Luderer, and IF Zach Sorensen

And so it ends. Gutierrez was a shell of the player the Indians thought they signed in 2002 because of injury, and when he finally completely recovered from two back surgeries, there was no spot for him. The Indians saved approximately $1M (they will pay about 75% of his 2004 contract) from this move, assuming the alternative was outright releasing him. I doubt the PTBNL will be of any consequence.

Some Other Decisions…

Josh Bard may find himself in Buffalo because of an ill-timed injury, and Tim Laker will in all probability back up Victor Martinez.

So now the only real decision left is choosing between Coco Crisp and Alex Escobar to be the 4th outfielder. My money is on Escobar; the Indians will have to face a lot of left-handed pitching in the AL Central, and Escobar is the only right-handed power bat on the roster.

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