The rebuilding era of the Cleveland Indians continues into the 2004 season. After amassing only 64 wins under first year skipper Eric Wedge, the Indians added second baseman Ronnie Belliard and pitcher Jose Jimenez from the Colorado Rockies, pitcher Scott Stewart of the Montreal Expos, and pitcher Jeroime Robertson, a 15-game winner with the Houston Astros. Robertson will start at Triple-A Buffalo before joining the Indians club.
The youthful pitching staff of the Indians will definitely see an increase of wins from the previous two seasons. The Indians last won the AL Central in 2001 and followed the early playoff departure with a fire sale and rebuilding movement. Not included in the picture is outfielder Milton Bradley. The speedy 25-year old had issues with management and motivation during spring training and was dealt to the Los Angeles Dodgers for minor league outfielder Franklin Gutierrez.
Team leaders Jody Gerut (.279 22 75) and C.C. Sabathia (13-9 3.60) join Belliard (.277 8 50) and Casey Blake (.257 17 67) to form the nucleus of the Cleveland Indians. Veteran Jeff D’Amico adds experience to the starting rotation, netting the fourth spot. David Riske is the 2004 closer after posting a slim 2.29 ERA in 68 games pitched.
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