Kelly Shoppach gives the Indians tremendous security - not only behind the plate but in case Travis Haffner is lost through a trade or free agency in '08. The Tribe needs to get him more ABs - perhaps playing him at least half the time behind the dish while moving Victor Martinez to first or DHing Martinez on occasion. Shoppach is a much better defensive catcher with a stronger and more accurate throwing arm. The guy is also currently hitting a ton - albeit in limited action.
It would be wise to sign Shoppach now to a long-term deal - giving the team what very few major league clubs have - depth behind the plate.
Also, if Haffner balks at signing an extension prior to the summer of '08, the Tribe can deal him and feel good about moving Martinez to first/DH and plugging Shoppach in behind the plate full-time. With 500 ABs, he (KS) might be able to give them 20+ HRs and one of the league's better defensive catchers.
Bad Vibes
I am worried. I have had two wise sportswriter friends recently mention to me that the Cavaliers might not re-sign Anderson Varejao if he signs a restricted mega-deal with another team.
That's bad news!
AV is a MUST SIGN for that organization - even if someone offers him a $8-10 million a year deal - which is likely. How are the Cavaliers a better team by letting one of their three best players leave?
They aren't.
He's (AV) extremely young, works hard, rebounds well and doesn't need the ball to be effective. Coaches love him for a reason. Someone will offer him huge money. He's restricted -which means the Cavaliers have no one to blame but themselves if he walks.
Sign him now or match the offer that awaits. Danny Ferry will need to deal Gooden to make cap room for AV - but that's okay. Gooden can be used in a deal to bring in a point guard who can actually make a jumper. AV simply has more market value and is a better player than Gooden or Z - the team's starting 4 & 5, and should be paid accordingly.
If the Cavaliers balk at re-signing him - they will be making another serious management/talent evaluation mistake. They don't have many players with upside - they can't afford to let one walk away.
Now if they work a sign and trade with him and others involving KG - that's another story. Unfortunately, the Cavaliers (read: Danny Ferry & company) don't seem to have the &#@* to reach that deep. We'll see.
I'll keep banging that drum until my arms fall off.
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