The Indians acquired INF/OF Mark DeRosa from the Cubs for three minor-leaguers: RHP Jeff Stevens, RHP Chris Archer and LHP John Gaub. DeRosa will be the Indians' everyday third baseman in 2009.
ARRIVALS: INF/OF Mark DeRosa (trade with Cubs), RHP Kerry Wood (free agent from Cubs), RHP Joe Smith (trade with Mets), INF Luis Valbuena (trade with Mariners), RHP Carl Pavano (free agent from Yankees), RHP Greg Aquino (minor league free agent from Orioles), RHP Kirk Saarloos (minor league free agent from A's). DEPARTURES: RHP Tom Mastny (contract sold to Japanese team), OF Franklin Gutierrez (traded to Seattle), RHP Juan Rincon (free agent, signed minor league deal with Tigers).
FREE AGENTS: RHP Brendan Donnelly, RHP Scott Elarton, C Sal Fasano.
There is no sense of urgency for the club to re-sign any of its free agents. Donnelly might be the one the Indians would be most interested in keeping, but he also might be the one to draw the most interest from other clubs.
ARBITRATION-ELIGIBLE: None.
The Indians haven't gone to salary arbitration with a player since 1991.
MEDICAL WATCH:
RHP Jake Westbrook (Tommy John surgery in June 2008) will be out until at least midseason in 2009.
DH Travis Hafner (arthroscopic right shoulder surgery in October 2008) should be fully healthy by Opening Day.
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