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Morning Roundup

By Ryan

Start of something big. Terry Pluto, PD

Pluto profiles Eric Wedge, and examines the influences of his managerial philosophy:

Within three years, Wedge wasn't just a good college player, he was a great one. He was first-team All-American in 1989, runner-up to Ben McDonald for the Rotary Smith Award as the college player of the year. He led the NCAA Division I players in walks and total bases, and was second in home runs and RBI. His team won the College World Series.

The Eric Wedge of 1989 was a power-hitting catcher who could throw and call a game. "He had a chance to be a major-league catcher for a long time," said Stephenson. "If only he had stayed healthy."

Cleveland Indians' designated hits. Chuck Yarborough, PD.

A listing of songs (with videos) Indians players have chosen to accompany their introductions. Some examples:

Jason Michaels, OF
"Bled for Days" by Static X
Michaels usually hits down in the order, so if you hear this one in the first inning, it's a good thing that'll probably have Tribe fans on their feet. Or, as I like to say, early to "Bled," early to rise.

Ryan Garko, 1B
"This Is Why I'm Hot" by Mims
"A Bay Bay" by Hurricane
"Get Buck" by Young Buck
"You Know What It Is" by TI
Figures an ex-catcher would have a different pitch for each situation. Although having watch him stretch to dig out a throw, I'd opt for "Twist and Shout."

Delivering quite a change. Jodie Valade, PD.

A nice feature article on Fausto Carmona's rise, his disastrous stint as closer, and this year's resurgence:

I learned a lot from what happened last year," Carmona said. "I'm not going to allow that to happen again. When I'm in tough situations, I take a step back and concentrate, and try to do better."

Said Indians pitching coach Carl Willis: "He's felt the other side, so he understands. He's so even-keel."

The article also delves into his work ethic and what drives it:

Part of Carmona's steady approach to baseball comes from an intrinsic work ethic. Part, too, comes from knowing that he cannot afford to stumble. His two brothers and two sisters, his mother and his father, all back in the Dominican Republic, rely on him for monetary support.

"I'm not only thinking about myself, I'm thinking about my family, too," Carmona said.

<snip>

That's why he is known for his serious approach to the game. He comes to the ballpark, he studies film, he works on adjustments, he works out. He stares blankly when asked for outside interests. "Sleep?" he offered. When the Indians tried to give Carmona a day of rest in the last week of the regular season, coaches were too late. He was already out running stairs for a workout.

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