C.C. Sabathia, LHP, Indians
Background: Sabathia has always been a big deal, in physique and performance. Already approaching 270 pounds, he was the 20th pick of the 1998 draft. He signed with the Indians for $1.3 million rather than play tight end at USC or the University of Hawaii.
What’s up: Sabathia, who weighs over three bills now, is quickly becoming the Hope Diamond of this summer’s trade class. The Indians were predicted by many to represent the American League in the World Series but have fallen from grace with a thud. With starter Jake Westbrook lost for the season and critical players such as Victor Martinez injured, the Indians could become sellers in July, choosing to stockpile prospects rather than salvage this season.
What’s next: Sabathia is an obvious piece to move. He can become a free agent at the end of the season, and with the Yankees already panting after him, it makes sense to deal rather than receive compensatory draft picks when he signs elsewhere. Sabathia is eyeing a contract in the neighborhood of seven years, $150 million, building off Johan Santana’s record deal with the Mets. He deserves that for his body of work, but not necessarily this season. He’s won just four games, and Cleveland finds itself in trouble in large part because their big man struggled in April.
Renck’s take: Cleveland general manager Mark Shapiro has become pessimistic about his chances of signing Sabathia long term. Does Sabathia want happiness or money? If it’s just Benjamins, he’s a goner. Early prediction: Sabathia, Cincinnati’s Adam Dunn and Colorado’s Brian Fuentes are the biggest pieces moved at the trading deadline.
