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The Tribe filled their most dyer need on Saturday when they came to terms with closer Kerry Wood on a two year deal for $20.5 million. There is also an $11 million option for a third year in 2011 if Wood can save 55 games in either of his first two seasons with the Indians.
After going to the disabled list 12 times during the first ten years of his career, many thought Wood was done. He bounced back in 2008 after having a decent season in the bullpen in 2007. The bullpen seems to be a better place for wood because he is used a lot less and it puts less wear on the body.
There is no doubt that the Indians needed to find someone to fill their closer role this off season after experimenting with various relievers during the season and never finding anyone who could really hold that spot down. Usually general managers are cautions with relievers who are coming off one of their best seasons due to the fact that most relievers usually have a good year and then a decent year due to usage. Apparently Indians? GM Mark Shapiro felt that the Tribe?s need was too great to heed that warning and signed Wood to what many in Cleveland would consider to be big money.
Bill Jordan is a contributor to BaseballReflections.com. He can be reached by e-mail at billjordaniv@yahoo.com.
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