Andy Marte has been a player without a defined role during his tenure in Cleveland.
The third baseman of the Tribe's future is now probably nothing more than a figment of the past.
Andy Marte was designated for assignment today. Does the phrase "long time coming" ring any bells?
Frankly this whole situation leaves a sour taste. He was the cornerstone in the trade that shipped Coco Crisp out of town. I liked Crisp. Even though his production tapered a bit in Boston, he was energetic, fun-loving, speedy, agressive, a defensive whiz, and most importantly he fit into the Indians' framework and the clubhouse. Since Crisp left for Bean Town, Cleveland has had a glaring hole in left field and in the number two spot in the order - a role he filled as well as anyone during his time as an Indian. Regardless, the deal gave the Tribe Kelly Shoppach so there is no need to quiver about bothced deals too much.
Now back to Marte. From Day One he seemed to stick out like a sore thumb. A square peg trying to fit in a round hole. And I'm not sure why. There was certainly pressure on him to be the guy that he was hyped to be. Maybe a change of scenery will do him good? Maybe not? The bottom line is he never did much to impress in Cleveland - in what little chances he got. Eric Wedge never seemed high on him, and he suffered. He was sluggish at times and simply just did not hit and field the way a top prospect should. I throw him in the same boat as Milton Bradley.
The mismanagement comes from the fact that this guy sat around for the last three years, and it was apparent that he was never going to be a full-time guy. He should've been gone long ago - when he still had some value. Now he will fade away into just another afterthought. I don't know if it's a shame or a relief - maybe both.