CLEVELAND, Ohio – Doodles in my Guardians notebook:
1. Not only do the Guardians finally have an outfielder, they have an outfielder who wants to stay in Cleveland. That’s why the Guardians’ signing of Myles Straw for five years, $25 million plus two team options is such a big deal for the franchise.
2. As Terry Francona told me in spring practice when I mentioned Straw, “If you put the ball in midfield, it’s an out.” The manager was also happy to have a legitimate leadoff hitter with speed. Last summer, Straw came to Cleveland in a trade with Houston for Phil Maton and potential catcher Yainer Diaz. He batted .285 (.739 OPS) with 16 doubles and 42 runs scored in 60 games. He was 13 out of 14 in stolen bases.
3. Straw, 27, gave up three years of a possible free hand – one being the last guaranteed contract year (2026) plus two team options ($8 million, $8.5 million). Straw was dropped from his high school team as a freshman. He went on to his junior collegiate team (St. Johns River in Palatka, Florida). He was eventually drafted by Houston in the 12th round – he signed for $100,000. So this was his first shot at making serious money, at least in the bloated world of baseball.
4. This comes after Jose Ramirez’s new $150 million contract extension, which puts him under team control for seven years. I’ve heard from some fans who are excited about the Ramirez deal but speaking out about the team not doing better. This is a snapshot instead of the big picture. Had Ramirez not signed and started the 2022 season on a two-year contract, rumors of a swap would have hung over the team. That stinks of team morale.
5. Ramirez, 29, will be here instead. He also insisted on a no-trade clause. This is believed to be the first full no-trade clause ever given to a Cleveland player. Signing Ramirez also helps when talking about contract extensions with other young players.
6. The spring renewal deal began with the signing of Emmanuel Clase to a five-year, $20 million deal with two-year team options. Guardians President Chris Antonetti and GM Mike Chernoff have now signed their star closer (Clase), elite all-rounder (Ramirez) and best fielder (Straw). How to build a team for the future.
7. Credit should also go to the owner, Paul Dolan, who had to greenlight these deals. Dolan interfered in the Ramirez talks to ensure the deal went through.
8. The Guardians have other players who appear to be good candidates for overtime. You spoke to Shane Bieber. Not sure where that is. He is represented by football super agent Drew Rosenhaus. Bieber agreed to a $6 million deal and avoided arbitration. His negotiations were conducted by Jason (brother of Drew) Rosenhaus and Dennis Wyrick.
9. Yes, I’d love to see the Wardens add another bat veteran. But the steps they are taking to build a base with current players are very encouraging. It shows that the players (and their agents) believe that something good can happen in Cleveland.
10. Finally, some fans have asked my prediction for this season: I have the Guardians with a 77-85 record unless they find a way to improve the roster through a trade. Too many holes in the lineup.
CURRENT TERRY PLUTO COLUMNS
Regardless of the playoff situation, this season has been a massive improvement for Cavs
Termination of contract for the new CSU coach Daniyal Robinson
The remarkable story of Daniyal Robinson’s journey to becoming CSU head coach
Paul Dolan performs, Jose Ramirez loves Cleveland!
Daniyal Robinson becomes the head coach of Cleveland State
Terry Francona’s big challenge as Guardians open the season
Reason for long-term optimism, but I’m worried about Guardians – Goodyear Scribbles right now
Emmanuel Clase’s new contract is a good deal for both sides
How is Terry Francona feeling? What worries the Guardians the most? – Terry’s Talking Guardians