Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona commented on the current roster construction of the team and if any future moves will be made.
This is not exactly what fans of the Cleveland Indians want to hear from Terry Francona.
It does not sound like the team is going to make any significant moves at this time. The “hot stove” has been freezing cold for the entirety of the offseason. While this is not all that surprising, it is a bit disheartening considering their unsettled outfield. Outside of Oscar Mercado there are a lot of question marks. This particular issue is not necessarily a new development. Cleveland had the exact same issue prior to last season. While moves were made during the season, there are still issues that remain.
The Tribe tried to put together an outfielder when buy-low, low-risk options. Options that included the likes of Leonys Martin and Carlos Gonzalez. Martin would go on to appear in 65 games and Gonzalez had 30 forgettable appearances.
An option in free agency does exist, although it does not seem very likely that a Yasiel Puig reunion is in the works. Puig apparently rubbed some people the wrong way, including Terry Francona. This is not the first time that Puig has been described in this manner and probably will not be the last. Add this to the fact Puig is searching for a multi-year deal and the Indians chances of bringing him back just went out the door.
Any additions the Indians make before the start of Spring Training will most likely be of the flier variety. Cleveland attempted this last season, it just did not work out. This is not the worst strategy and it could work if the right player is signed. Most teams take fliers on players every offseason, they just happened to work out for them while Cleveland’s signings did not.
