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Casey Blake Will Always be Targeted for Criticism – 4-8-08
Disapproving comments always seem to be linked to Blake, but what about everyone else?

What does Casey Blake have to do to win over Indians fans? The man just can’t catch a break in Cleveland, as the media and fans alike continue to pick apart his every move.

Despite hitting the game winning three-run double in the season opener, the Indians’ third baseman is still revered for his dismal career .219 average with runners in scoring position.

This same trend has been seen for years now. In 2007, Blake hit two walk-off home runs in September, all but solidifying their playoff berth. But what people remember from last year was his last at-bat where runners were on the corners and he swung at the first pitch and grounded into a double play – thus capping any possibility of the Tribe sniffing the lead in Game 7 of the ALCS.

This is the same man that came in before the 2003 campaign that included a hodgepodge of youngsters and washed up veterans gracing the roster. He wasn’t even on the radar, as he was just expected to fill a hole until the rebuilding could take shape. That wasn’t the case, as he solidified a spot in the order and on the diamond – whether that included batting ninth and playing third or hitting cleanup and manning a corner outfield spot. He has been a rock on this club for the past five seasons, as the Indians morphed from that band of misfits into a legitimate contender. The only current anchors of this club that remain from that time are C.C. Sabathia and Jake Westbrook.

Blake is in great shape for a 34-year-old. He can play any corner position and bat anywhere. The unfortunate reality is that there is no commitment of keeping him in town after this year. He should stay in Cleveland past this season, either as an everyday player or as a utility player. His future hinges on the direction front office decides to go – and the development of Andy Marte.

But there are other matters with this team that need to be tackled before the cutting down of one of the most stable presences on the roster commences. How about the fact that the leftfield platoon has mustered one hit thus far? How about the fact that Travis Hafner and Grady Sizemore already have 17 strikeouts combined in 53 at bats? How about the fact that Joe Borowski – owner of a 19.29 ERA - blew a save with a two-run lead last night?

It’s obviously still early, so no one is scrambling, but Casey Blake is hardly an issue that needs addressed. He’s a versatile player with some pop and an above average glove who is willing to do just about anything to help the team win. A veteran on this club has the respect of his teammates, but unfortunately, he may never get the respect from the fans.

Tags: casey blake, grady sizemore, joe borowski, travis hafner