Despite owning the second worst record (19-31) and run differential (-64) in the American League, Indians' GM Mark Shapiro is under no orders from CEO Paul Dolan to make trades and cut payroll like he has during the last two seasons, according to The Cleveland Plain Dealer's Paul Hoynes.
"We are not actively engaged in talks about anyone right now," said Shapiro. "The season's natural cycle will dictate when we consider some alternatives. We're not mandated to make any trades for monetary reasons.
"We'll look at each trade (possibility) as an opportunity to acquire talent and it's budgetary impact. But the acquisition of talent will be the primary driver."
Shapiro indicated that he could explore trades involving "anyone in the last year of their contracts," so that includes Russell Branyan, Austin Kearns, Mark Grudzielanek, Jhonny Peralta, Mike Redmond, Jake Westbrook, and Jamey Wright. Even if they move Westbrook, the Indians feel they may have a chance to re-sign him after the season as a free agent.
Top prospect Carlos Santana is expected to be up at some point this season, but Shapiro did make sure to mention that his defense needs to improve, particularly his throwing. They plan on taking advantage of every day possible in the minors to help him develop, which shows that the team is looking for production on both sides of the ball, not just at the plate.
The Indians figure to be a prominent player at the trade deadline this year given their inventory, with Westbrook representing to be their most desirable chip. Even though he's still owed about $7.6MM this season, his 4.36 ERA in 11 starts might be a big enough upgrade to justify the cost for some teams.
Here is a question for peope: why would you want Westbrook?
If you don’t think he can help a team, then you don’t know jack about Jake Westbrook. Not only is he in his walk year, but he appears to be on his way to a full recovery from TJ, and over his career has proven to be a horse who has one of the best groundball rates every year. You know exactly what he will give you every time out, and your bullpen breathes a sigh of relief on his day. A team with uncertainty at the 3 or 4 starter’s slot will take his career 4.31 ERA and run.
I wouldn’t be surprised if the Tigers at least inquired about Peralta. SS/3b is a huge blackhole for us, no idea what it would take to get him though
the indians roster is really horrible, didnt realize that until I saw the lineup vs the tigers today
A ground-baller like Westbrook is a perfect fit in Cincinnati. If the Reds are still in it at the deadline, I see a fit.