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Cleveland Indians
I predict the Indians will finish second in the AL Central.
Watch out for Alex Escobar. For you fantasy folks, you may want to keep an eye on this kid. He's a player. The rest of the outfield should be solid, sporting Jody Gerut, the Sporting News's Rookie of the Year last year. The Tribe is hoping Matt Lawton will play well enough in the first half to use as tradebait. Lawton is no fan of Cleveland, and Cleveland brass is no fan of Lawton.
On the infield, the Indians have the best young catcher in the game in Victor Martinez. He'll play only two out of three or so until the Indians are convinced he is settled. Omar Vizquel should have a good season left in him, injury is the unknown factor here. The rest of the infield is a hode-podge of talent that is capable of having a big season, and just as capable of losing a starting job.
The starting pitching will carry the club this year. CC Sabathia had a great opening day outing, only to suffer a no decision as the bullpen let him down. Jason Davis can pitch. Jason Stanford is an interesting number five, he was an Olympic team qualifier who has a bright future, just not alot of experience. Cliff Lee may end up being the best pitcher on the staff. A big, strong lefty, his best stuff can dominate hitters.
There you have it: a young pitching staff, some promising outfielders, and an infield anchored by the veteran Vizquel and the young Martinez. There are some serious holes in the batting order, the defense is a question, and the club will only go as far as a seriously shaky bullpen can take them. But in the AL Central? I think second is attainable.
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