Fultz To Be Released; Laffey and Sowers Optioned

Paul Hoynes has learned that the Indian’s intend to release Aaron Fultz after claiming reliever Craig Breslow of waivers from the Red Sox.

I posted the news about Breslow just awhile ago, and I said it was interesting to see what would happen. I certainly didn’t expect this to happen and to happen this quickly.

“We try not to make decisions just based upon spring training,” said Mark Shapiro. “Aaron is a guy prior to his injury last year pitched very effectively for us. He never got back to that form after that. I’m sure he can still help someone in the big leagues. Our desire was to take that spot in the bullpen, try to upgrade and continue to get better.” - Mark Shapiro (CPD)

So this is very interesting. The Indians will go into the year with Craig Breslow? Maybe they give Breslow a little bit of an audition, use Jorge Julio to start the year, and if things don’t work out recall Tom Mastny.

Certainly this changes the bullpen in a big way. The top of it is solidified and it is the last two spots of a very deep pen. But all pieces matter. We’ll see what happens in the coming week.
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Lee Wins: It’s official now. Cliff Lee has the final spot as Jeremy Sowers and Aaron Laffey have been optioned to Triple A Buffalo.