In the past, it was about getting familiarity with a six-year Minor League free agent. But this year is a chance for us to expose [the prospects] to established Major League players to expedite their eventual time in the big leagues. We look at it as invaluable experience. |
Lee's set of experiences as a former professional player, scout, and coach has allowed him to make a successful transition to a manager. His knowledge of the game, first hand experiences, and ability to communicate enable him to be an effective leader of young developing players. |
Our goal is to get him to the point of three to four days a week in extended Spring Training before we can get him out. |
Ruben has a complete understanding of our development approach and proven ability to communicate and nurture this process. His extensive knowledge of delivery mechanics and effective teaching techniques has made an impact on a number of pitchers at all levels of the organization. |
That can be a physical challenge. |
The issue is not temporary, but has been growing over time. |
There's no denying work ethic and creativity. He wasn't an overpowering pitcher during his career. He had to find every angle possible to compete and have success, which he did. So he brings in a different viewpoint. |
This kid is only 19 years old? ... Unbelievable. |
This virus is deadly to some birds, but not all birds, so some birds can carry it and appear healthy. What do people need to know, number one, is there's no reason for panic. |
We do feel confident and really feel for the first time in five years that our starting pitching depth is coming from original draft choices of the Indians. What goes along with that is youth and physical durability. It's encouraging. |
We feel he still can benefit from innings at the Triple-A level. Whether that's 10 starts or 15 starts, it's not a predetermined number. We were fortunate last year in that a sixth starter was only needed [in the big leagues] on a few occasions. At some point, provided the opportunity arises and the need is there, I think Jeremy Sowers will be ready. |
We get former Major Leaguers and former Indians with genuine interest involved and more familiar with our development approach. Cory is clearly interested in that. This is an opportunity for us to take a look at his ability to communicate. |
We just don't want dangerous, psychiatric people. |
We take an approach toward Spring Training that we're not only getting legs and arms and timing in shape. We're getting their minds in shape as well. |
What he has shown here is what he has shown from his first start in Double-A two years ago, pitching in a playoff atmosphere. One thing we've seen repeatedly is every time we've challenged him, he's responded favorably with an increase in his stuff, whether it be through velocity or action. |