Exercise in Caution

At the risk of beating a dead horse, I will offer my two cents once again at the impending C.C. Sabathia deal.

Cleveland is overly optimistic that they will be able to re-sign the south paw at season's end. When the '08 campaign commenced, Sabathia was clearly distracted by his possible free agency. He regained his Cy Young winning form since April and has been virtually unhittable in his last 8 starts. The lack-luster Indian offense has been unable to pick him up resulting in a sub .500 record for Sabathia.

So Tribe GM Mark Shapiro is in a belts and suspenders situation. Clearly the Indians have nothing to play for, yet upsetting the fanbase could result in decreased season ticket sales. So while I would like to see a return in top notch pitching prospects from a potential trade partner, the two draft picks Cleveland would acquire by losing Sabathia to free agency could prove to be worth it given the Indians excellent draft history.

A healthy Fausto Carmona and Jake Westbrook could team with Cliff Lee and Aaron Laffey to form a dominant rotation. Increased offense is much more critical, given the Indians needs.

So man up, Mr. Shapiro. Given an inevitable lose-lose situation, exercise caution and prove that no matter what, you are confident in your decision regardless of its analysis from the press. The Eerie Warriors have a tremendous core and while Sabathia's loss would be felt not only on the field but in the locker room, forcing the young athletes to assume more prominent roles may deem beneficial in the long run.