Byrd on the Block

With Aaron Laffey having success, and Jake Westbrook due back, the Indians could turn to Paul Byrd's spot as a way of keeping both in the rotation.

Byrd hasn't done anything to merit a release or anything like that. But he is the oldest, has a contract up, and is probably the most sensible to get rid of.

"Trading Paul Byrd would make sense for the Indians. Rosenthal says the Brewers, Braves, and Astros "likely would show interest." Byrd sports a 3.61 ERA and 4.4 K/BB." (MLBTR)

and from the source..

"The Brewers, Braves and Astros are among the teams that likely would show interest in Indians right-hander Paul Byrd, who could be moved after righty Jake Westbrook comes off the disabled list. Byrd, 37, has a 3.61 ERA in eight starts, but his $7.5 million salary could be an issue; teams might prefer to wait until the pro-rated obligation would be less. The Indians might prefer to wait, too, though they want to keep lefty Aaron Laffey in their rotation. A trade of Byrd could help them build inventory for a later run at a second baseman or third baseman . . ." (Ken Rosenthal)

We love Rosenthal because of his rumors and Foxsports here mainly because they put one of my articles up(cheap plug), so expect a lot of stuff from them...

It's an interesting idea. Not sure what they would give us in return, as none of the interested teams have any of those players we've talked about in the past week or so. Would it be a prospect or something? Not sure.. I really have no opinion either way. Should we trade him? No, I wouldn't.. Should we let him walk after the year is over, yes yes yes. Would I be that upset if we traded him? Not really..

So, whatever happens. God bless Shapiro. You can't go wrong I guess. Laffey would be more easier on the pen because you wouldn't have to take him out after 80 pitches like you do Byrd. But, really Byrd is a vet and you need your vets, especially on the pitching staff. Who knows, Shapiro will make the move that he believes is best for the team in all aspects.

Read The Full Article:
http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TheTribeTimeReport/~3/294380866/byrd-on-block.html

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