I agree with this. The Indians are trying to thread the needle between now and the future. No issue with that approach in theory, but their execution is not the greatest. This isn’t totally surprising given how they hoard fringe players and methodically prioritize who gets a shot based on reasons other than being the best option.I'm not going to suggest that you're right or wrong, only that if preparing for next year and beyond is the mantra then I don't want to half ass it. That means adios to Eddie and Cesar by the break and dealing a certain individual by no later than the start of the 22 season.
Because I think this team can compete now with an addition or 2, I'd prefer to go that route. We're headed for a roster crunch and some difficult decisions anyway.
I think it would serve them best to pick a lane and go with it. Both for this season and for the future, because it’s possible what they’re doing now could prove detrimental to both. Worst case scenario for this season would be treading water to 85-88 wins on the cusp of contention and doing nothing to clear up the pending logjam on the 40 man roster. This organization does a lot well, but analysis paralysis does seem to hold them back in regards to roster decision making. They either need to open up LF/2B to audition youngsters with an eye on the future or show an urgency to fix the current roster. I prefer they do the latter, whether that be a trade similar to 2016 season or making a move like Tampa just did yesterday.
I appreciate the FO mentality of not wanting to let controllable talent go. But that line of thinking doesn’t always align with trying to win. They cannot put off making decisions on guys forever. The pending roster crunch will not allow them to continue the cycle of waiting until guys are out of options to give them a shot simply out of fear. They are really good at acquiring puzzle pieces. I think they could be better putting the puzzle together.