February 20, 2009

Andy Marte DFAed

According to the Tribune Review, Andy Marte has been DFAed by the Cleveland Indians.  The Pirates have been known to have had interest in Marte in the past, prior to acquiring Andy LaRoche and twice signing Pedro Alvarez.  According to the Trib, “there are no indications the Pirates will try to acquire him”.

BTW Take:

This is the type of player it would not hurt to go after.  Grabbing Marte would add some additional depth in the organization.  If nothing else, the Pirates could move either Andy to first base considering the gap that will be left when the elder LaRoche leaves via trade or free agency.

The painful reminder that Andy Marte delivers to the Pirates, from 2004-2006 Marte was ranked as the 11th (2004), 9th (2005) and 14th (2006) best prospect in the game.  Andrew McCutchen should take note.

Marte is only 25, and he may still develop into a top notch MLB player, but right now his future is in question.  Especially his future with the Indians.  He will, without a doubt, be claimed by someone.  The Pirates could use a player of his caliber. 

Another possibility, many teams are interested in Marte so a trade could be worked out later in the year or in the offseason that would land a good return.

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