Shelley Duncan prepared to be more than a role player | indians.com: News
Duncan was one of the best hitters in the lineup late last season, though I don't think the Indians will be comfortable penciling him as a starter in left field or first base. I do think though that even if he isn't an everyday player at one position, he'll have enough opportunities to get 350-400 plate appearances. Duncan can fill in for Travis Hafner once or twice a week next season (not to mention the inevitable DL stint), and either in left field or first base, depending on who the Indians bring in.
Phils sign Thome to one-year deal | Philadelphia Inquirer | 11/05/2011
A little surprising that Thome would go to an NL club for an entire season, but his mentor Charlie Manuel is there, and the Phillies will once again be a favorite to win the National League pennant. Ryan Howard may not ready to start the season, so perhaps Thome could play some first base. If you're wondering, the Indians will not get any draft pick compensation for Thome.
Ron Santo and Jim Kaat are among 10 on the Golden Era Hall of Fame ballot | MLB.com: News
Three former Indians are on the Golden Era Veterans' Committee ballot: Luis Tiant, Minnie Minoso, and Allie Reynolds. I think both Tiant and Minoso would be deserving Hall of Famers, though Ron Santo is probably the most likely player on the ballot to be voted in.