Well the Aaron Fultz era has finally coming to an end, as Fultz is expected to be released or traded sometime today. The bullpen this offseason and spring training has been a major area of concern for the Cleveland Indians. Between the implosion of Fultz and the three-headed battle amongst veterans Scott Elarton and Jorge Julio and Tom Mastny, it seems Shapiro and Wedge feel that relief pitching may be the key to this season. When the tribe claimed Boston lefty Craig Breslow off of waivers, this signaled the end of Fultz as an Indian.
This is a mild suprise because the tribe will be on the hook for his $1.5 million dollar salary for 2008 if he cannot be traded. This move shows that the front office will keep substandard play on the field on a short leash, because this season seems to be their best shot a world title. Having a below average lefty buried in the bullpen because he has a guaranteed contract should not happen anymore. Aaron Fultz had some success against leftys, but his inherited runners scoring stats were terrible as was his opponents batting average. This move represents the Cleveland Indians pursuit for the playoffs again in 2008.
