| Michael D’Ambrosio. 5th December, 2005 - 2:04 am
 The Cleveland Indians joined the free agent frenzy on Sunday by signing veteran pitcher Paul Byrd to a two-year contract worth $14.25 million. Byrd, who turned 35 yesterday, will could as the replacement for free agent Kevin Millwood.
Byrd, who went 12-11 with the Los Angeles Angels last season, joins his fifth team in as many years. The veteran pitcher struck out 102 batters in 204 innings pitched last season and posted a 3.74 ERA.
A former Indians draft pick in 1991, Byrd has compiled a career record of 72-64 along with a 4.57 ERA during ten years of Major League Service.
Breaking Down The Deal
The crafty Byrd adds a veteran presence to a Cleveland staff that features C.C. Sabathia, Jake Westbrook, and Cliff Lee.
I would not go as far as calling Paul Byrd the replacement for Kevin Millwood. While Byrd dominates right-handed hitters with breaking balls, notably his screwball; he does not have a strong fastball and gets hit hard by lefties. He produced a good performance during the last postseason which bodes well for Cleveland if they manage to jump into the playoffs in 2006.
Putting everything aside, Byrd should be able to provide the Indians with 12-15 wins as their 4 or 5 starter in the rotation.
My Grade: [B] – this is a good depth signing for the Indians ball club – Byrd comes cheaper than most of the bigger names available and has the ability to win some ball games. |
