It’s official, the announcement came today that the Indians have signed Orlando Cabrera to a one-year contract.
This addition adds some stability to an Indians infield that looked a bit bleak in terms of quality available for filling the voids. This move also gives Jason Kipnis more time to develop in Columbus. In Cabrera the Indians are getting a capable bat to add to the lineup, a veteran who has playoff experience and two Gold Glove Awards, a solid defender in the field and maybe most importantly someone who will be able to mentor this young Indians lineup.
The transition to second base is one I don’t see being difficult for Cabrera. He’ll have less ground to cover, shorter throws to make and a capable partner across the diamond at short.
However, with this signing I can’t help but think that the Indians will offer Cabrera up as trade bait come July, especially if Kipnis is shows he is ready to take the step to the majors. I can’t say that I disagree with this idea either. And the end of the season, Cabrera will be a free agent and if he has a good season, and the going rate is high, the Tribe might be able to squeeze a couple prospects out of it.
But forget about July right now. It’s February and there seems to be more and more reasons to be optimistic about this season.
Go Tribe!
JR
Original Story:
http://deepleftfield.com/2011/02/16/w...
