ALCentral_Cleveland Indians

2014 Minnesota Gameday HQ Round 2

CLEVELAND INDIANS 5-YEAR SCORECARD 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 WINS 92 68 80 69 65 RUNS PER GAME 4.60 4.12 4.35 3.99 4.77 RUNS ALLOWED PER GAME 4.09 5.22 4.69 4.64 5.34 OPENING-DAY PAYROLL (millions) $80 $65 $49 $61 $81 Terry Francona and Nick Swisher 2014 STRENGTHS: • Balanced lineup • Excellent managing 2014 WEAKNESSES: • Overhauled pitching staff • Defense is error prone What can’t Terry Francona do? In his first year as manager, Tito transformed the Indians from league basement dweller to Wild Card winner. Yes, they lost to the Rays in a one-game playoff, but there’s potential for another strong season in Cleveland, even without two of its best pitchers. HITTING Before we get to the stars of the lineup, consider this wacky stat: The Indians tied for the fourth most runs in the AL last year (745) and didn’t have one player with over 22 homers or 84 RBI. That’s crazy. They accomplished this feat with a balanced lineup that basically returns intact, providing reason for offensive optimism. Michael Bourn has lost a step to age but remains a steady leadoff man when healthy. For all his playful antics, Nick Swisher (22 HR, 63 RBI) is a productive hitter. Jason Kipnis, 26, is coming off a career year (17 HR, 84 RBI) and entering his prime. Carlos Santana (20 HR, 74 RBI) is expected to put up bigger numbers as he transitions from catcher to third base/designated hitter. Michael Brantley (73 RBI) and Asdrubal Cabrera (14 HR, 64 RBI) also have some pop. And at 43, Jason Giambi is still a dangerous situational lefty bat. AL Central DAVID BANKS/GETTY IMAGES SPORT


2014 Minnesota Gameday HQ Round 2
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