Belliard Traded
Ronnie Belliard came to Cleveland over two years ago, and at the time, I scoffed at the signing.
But Belliard surprised everyone by putting up very solid offensive numbers. He made the all-star team in 2004, hitting 12 homers and driving in 70 runs. He was even better in 2005, smacking 17 homers and driving in 78 runs.
It was his competence that, at first, made the trade of Brandon Phillips understandable. But the Indians fell way out of contention this year, and Belliard's contract was up. So the Indians dealt him to St. Louis.
Belliard is not a great fielder, but he's not horrible at second either.
In return. the Indians get Hector Luna, who's 26, has the ability to play almost anywhere, and, more importantly, makes about $3.5 million less than Belliard. He doesn't appear to have much power, but then again, is used as a 10th man.
So we traded a former all-star for a utility man. Great. That quicksand in the middle of the infield will not be cleared up any time soon.