Cleveland Indians Designate Shaun Marcum

The Cleveland Indians Designate Shaun Marcum & Option Zach Walters

The Cleveland Indians have designated starting pitcher Shaun Marcum for assignment following Wednesday blowout loss, which saw him last only two innings.  This marks Marcum’s second time being designated for assignment by the Indians. He cleared waivers last time and opted to stay in the organization.  Marcum did enjoy more success this time around so perhaps a team will take a gamble on him but safe bet is that he’ll clear again. The only question then is will he accept the demotion or opt to find work elsewhere (as Jhoulys Chacin did Thursday as well).

Marcum has appeared in seven games (six starts) for the Cleveland Indians this year. He’s 3-2 and thrown 35 innings; however, he has a 5.40 ERA and 5.76 FIP.  Marcum’s departure leaves a hole in the Tribe rotation, one in which they plan to fill this Sunday against the Tampa Bay Rays.

As Hoynes said, the most likely candidate is Cody Anderson though the Indians have not made anything official to this point.

The Indians also optioned utility player Zach Walters to Triple-A Columbus.  He was recalled less than two weeks ago taking the place of struggling shortstop Jose Ramirez.  Walters didn’t get much playing time as Mike Aviles started until top prospect Francisco Lindor was called up this week.  With Giovanny Urshela, Mike Aviles, and Francisco Lindor all on the roster, Walters is a bit redundant and the Indians are able to keep an extra pen arm for the time being.

Cleveland Indians Call-Up Kyle Crockett & Jeff Manship

Taking the places of Marcum and Walters are relievers Kyle Crockett and Jeff Manship.  Crockett opened the season in the Tribe bullpen after having a very solid rookie year in 2014. However, he fell victim so some roster crunches and found himself back in Triple-A where he’s been since early April.  He adds a third lefty to the pen to hopefully take some pressure (and usage) off Nick Hagadone and Marc Rzepczynski.

Jeff Manship was a non-roster invitee this spring with the Cleveland Indians. He had his contract purchased by the Indians (taking the 40-man spot left vacant by Marcum’s DFA) after pitching very well for the Columbus Clippers.  He was striking out nearly a batter an inning with a WHIP of just 1.07.  Manship has had prior big league experience with the Twins, Rockies, and Phillies although none of it has been particularly good (career ERA north of 6).

The Cleveland Indians will have a nine-man bullpen for the next few days with the addition of Crockett and Manship. Another roster move will be needed before Sunday, with likely one of Crockett/Manship losing their spot but for now Francona will have the luxury of extra arms, which hopefully will keep him from needing to turn to any position players for a while…

Next: Cleveland Indians: Who Had the Better Day, Bauer or Lindor?