With their spring audition almost over, both Cliff Lee and Ben Francisco have both made a name for themselves.
Lee is trying to return to form of the 2005 season when he was a Cy Young contender with a 18-5 record and a 3.79 era. He struggled following that season, but has been very impressive this spring in trying to wrap up the last remaining rotation spot behind C.C. Sabathia, Fausto Carmona, Paul Byrd, and Jake Westbrook, all who have proved themselves trusted and dependent starters.
This spring, Lee has been above average compared to the last two springs in posting a 5.27 ERA and going 1-1 thus far. But in his most recent outing against the New York Mets, Lee threw five scoreless innings while striking out five batters.
The only other name who is competing with Lee for the fifth and final spot is Aaron Laffey, who started a few times last season, posting a 4-2 record with a 4.56 ERA.
The only other player who needs to prove himself is on the offensive side of the diamond. Outfielder Ben Francisco, who made an instant impact when he first came up by hitting a home run in his first ever at bat, has been quite impressive this spring batting an impressive .378 while driving in nine and hitting three home runs.
Francisco, who is competing against Franklin Gutierrez for the final outfield spot, has been all smiles this spring and is enjoying the competition.
Both players have plenty to offer and contribute to another run by the Tribe and their push for an American League Championship.
Both are ready to compete and for the season to start.
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