The Indians formed an agreement on Saturday with Roberto Hernandez and Aaron Fultz on a one-year contract adding much-needed experience and depth to the young bullpen. Right-hander Hernandez, 42, will receive $3.5 million and the Indians have a $3.7 million option for 2008. Lefty Fultz, 33, also agreed for a club option for 2008 but the financial terms of his contract have not been disclosed yet.
Last season, Hernandez was 0-3 registering two saves and a 3.11 ERA in 68 appearances for Pittsburgh and the New York Mets. He started playing this season with the Pirates, but he has been traded just before the July 31 deadline. Hernandez also made three appearances against St. Louis in the NL championship series. Over his long career, he had 326 career saves, establishing the 10th-most in major league history. However, Hernandez is not expected to play as the closer in Cleveland. General Manager Shapiro explained that the Indians did not sign Hernandez as permanent closer and he is only expected to close some games.
Last season, the Indians recorded a major league-low 24 saves. Shapiro is now looking into the free-agent market to find the proper player to finish games. Cleveland might prefer not to sign a closer conducting an open competition among their current relievers while in Florida during the spring training instead. But Hernandez is not expected to compete for the spot. Shapiro explained that signing veterans could benefit to the entire pitching staff on the ground that they have experience to handle critical situations. Shapiro added that his club intends to add at least another experienced reliever.
As for lefty Fultz, he was 3-1 with a 4.54 ERA while appearing in 66 games for Philadelphia last season. Unfortunately, his club did place him on the roster to play the final eight appearances in September. The Indians were desperately in need of an experienced lefty since last season. Over his career, Fultz is 21-12 with three saves and a 4.37 ERA in 414 appearances limiting left-handed hitters to a .240 average.
GM Shapiro also explained that the Indians also are looking for a utility infielder who has very good shortstop playing skills. Since such player is no more available on the free-agent market, the Indians will likely enter in a trade to fill in this need.
About the writer: Nigel Kerry is an American free lance writer born in Los Angeles, California. Kerry writes among others for Sportus.com - Sportsbook reviews, UsBookies.com - Sports Betting Online and Get-best-mortgage-loan.com - Mortgage lenders, get the best mortgage loan
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