Cleveland Indians: Offseason Acquisitions Strengthen the Tribe

The Cleveland Indians have had quite the productive offseason. Cleveland's acquisition of a few key players has added the depth that they needed.

Indians general manager Chris Antonetti stated that they have achieved the three main objectives of strengthening their rotation, improving their offense and adding as much depth behind the team as possible.

Adding pitchers Derek Lowe and Kevin Slowey strengthened the Indians' rotation. Free agent Casey Kotchman signed on to play at first base.

Center fielder Grady Sizemore re-signed with the club, retaining the depth in the outfield that Cleveland needs.

Recent acquisitions of outfielder Aaron Cunningham and another first baseman, Russ Canzler, further deepened and strengthened Cleveland's roster.

The moves that Cleveland has made during this offseason have accomplished numerous goals and have put the Indians in an excellent position to contend in the American League Central.

They have added some quality players in key positions, they have a solid base of players who are young and will further develop and grow and they have achieved the depth that they wanted on the big club as well as in their minor league system.

All of these moves that the Indians have made for the pro club and in their farm system have developed strong confidence in their players and coaches.

Pitchers and catchers report to spring training on Feb. 20, and the rest of the team reports on Feb. 23. Competition will be fierce for the vacancy on the starting rotation, but once that has been worked out the Indians will put together a strong, solid team.

The 2012 season looks good for the Tribe.