Morning Update: Mujica Getting Meaningful Chances

In case you are wondering why Andy Marte was on the bench, after Eric Wedge said he was the everyday Third Baseman.. Fear not, for it was simply a day off for Marttttyyy.

Marte will be back in the lineup today and since Garko had such a great night, I’m going to take a wild stab and say he’ll be DHing. Playing Dellucci these days is pretty pointless if you ask me.

I’m sticking a fork in the Tribe career of Brian Slocum, who was sent down to make room for Matt Ginter.

“We’re still not seeing up here what we are seeing down there,” manager Eric Wedge said. “It’s not uncommon for a young pitcher, but he has to get to the point where he’s comfortable in a big league uniform, locker room and particularly on the field to where he can relax and pitch.” (Indians.com)

In other words.. He’s 27 and if he hasn’t shown it by now, then well I don’t think he will be showing it anytime soon. Slocum will be back, no doubt, but I don’t expect him to ever contribute. The Indians should have no problem next year with his lack of option years.

One young bullpen arm that I’m doing just the opposite for is Eddie(Edward, Ed, Edwin) Mujica. I’ve always like Squirrel boy and now he is showing he can get it done late in the game.

“What Mujica did has to be noted,” said Wedge. “For him to take advantage of that opportunity is something we’ve been waiting for some of these kids to do.” (Plain Dealer)

I like Mujica’s chances for a spot next year if he keeps pitching well. You knew there would be spots open, it’s just a matter of someone stepping up to get them.

Josh Barfield will play catch after the All-Star Break.

Fausto Carmona will be heading back to where the magic happened a few years ago.. He’ll make his first rehab start monday for the Lake County Captains. As for his bullpen session.

“I throw all my pitches, including a knuckleball” (Plain Dealer)

Very Funny Fausto.

Casey Blake got a new locker.

With C.C. Sabathia gone, the veterans locker became open and Blake has been moved to it.. I highly doubt he’ll be there for much longer though, so they should have just given it to Cliff Lee. Casey still hang out with Shoppach all the time anyway.

Also, Matt LaPorta got a day off last night, so no watch on him.