Late Innings

As of this afternoon, the Indians designated one time prospect (or “third baseman of the future") Andy Marte for assignment in leiu of a minor trade with the Rays. I’m curious to see who will pick him up. As I’ve stated previously, the Indians have been burned after giving up on former top prospects prematurely. Two names that come to my mind include Brandon Phillips and Jeremy Guthrie.

If it’s my guess, I could see Baltimore taking a flier on Marte, like they’ve done with former prospects Guthrie, Felix Pie and Rich Hill. The main issue however is finding space for him on the 40 man roster. They were able to slip Scott Moore through waivers, however I’m not sure who else could be moved off the roster for Marte. Alfredo Simon perhaps? How about a Luke Scott trade? In either case, Marte would be an interesting pickup by Andy MacPhail, with top third base prospect Billy Rowell not being ready anytime soon.