All-Star Break Report Card

There's an interesting article by Jim Ingraham. You can find it here: http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18567556&BRD=1699&PAG=461&dept_id=46370&rfi=6

He grades the team player by player (more or less). He's harsher on Westbrook than he is on Lee, although maybe that's because Westbrook just signed a new deal. He also gives Barfield a C, which I think is a bit low, as you really have to take into consideration his average with runners in scoring position: .318 and .378 with two outs.

He also gives Nixon a D, which might be accurate for his performance, but takes away from his value in the clubhouse. I'll be the first to admit that Nixon's willingness to thank Jesus for his success is disconcerting, but his profesionalism and attitude have made a noticeable difference. I'd actually knock his grade up a full letter just for the impact he's had on the younger guys. I think that's been key.

He gives Rouse a D as well, which is understandable. If we have a weak spot off the bench, it's clearly Rouse. I have to wonder if they'd ever consider making a move there, particularly if Joe Inglett makes a strong recovery. Asdrubal Cabrera has been making a name for himself in Akron and I'd be surprised if he didn't get bumped up to Buffalo before the end of the year. I have to think he'll be the favorite for the utility gig next year.

The most interesting part of the article, however, has to be the litany of bad luck the Tribe has had to overcome so far this season. It is pretty amazing that we've got 52 wins. Imagine a team with some consistency from the back end of our rotation, guys like Francisco and Gutierrez playing every day, a stronger bullpen, and Pronk back to normal.

Sounds like a team that can go deep into October to me.