This is an impressive run for Cleveland. Three of the last four American League Cy Young winners are former Indians pitchers (Bartolo Colon, CC Sabathia, Cliff Lee). The latter pitcher was just dealt to the Philadelphia Phillies along with outfielder Ben Francisco in exchange for pitchers Carlos Carrasco and Jason Knapp, catcher Lou Marson and shortstop Jason Donald.
So, Roy Halladay might just wanna get comfy in Toronto.
Lee will become Philly's third left-handed starting pitcher, along with Jamie Moyer and Cole Hamels, in a rotation serving up a league worst 97 home runs in 98 starts. The Phils are in no danger of losing their division lead (currently seven games ahead of Florida) but, as we all know, you're gonna want that starting pitching in the postseason.
Carrasco is one of the top prospects in the league this year, with a sinking changeup, which is a great kind of double play-inducing pitch. Knapp is another young heralded talent the Indians will be receiving. Currently at Single-A (actually, currently injured), he throws a high 90s fastball.
In fact, all four players sent to Cleveland are top prospects in the Phillies organization and not just throw-ins. Marson could be the Indians' future catcher if Victor Martinez leaves after 2010. Donald may play third if Andy Marte doesn't work out.
Indians fans sure have to be disappointed that their inexplicably bad team is being apportioned, because many believed they could contend again next year with the same guys. I'd like to say they're getting promising players in return (and they are) but they've heard that before.
Article comments
1 - Brad Laidman
Cliff Lee could play - he had to go!
2 - Tony
Actually, Lee will be their forth lefty starter as JA Happ is also left-handed.
I think Lee will be very good in the much weaker National League. The Phils look strong, especially if Myers comes back as a reliever as the reports are indicating. There's also Pedro waiting in the wings, and while he won't be "PEDRO" he could still be a very good fifth starter if you believe the scouting reports on his recent sessions.