2008 has come and gone for the Cleveland Indians, and it would be safe to say that most of us thought they'd still be playing baseball. However, as baseball always seems to do, we have been humbled.
The division was weak and our biggest opponents were off to one of the worst starts ever from an expected contender. It was there for the taking, but injuries took their toll and high achievers from last year's magical year were no where to be found.
It was a roller-coaster ride to say the least. One experienced all kinds of emotions, which included confidence, pressure, anger, joy, hope, disappointment, and eagerness.
Now we reflect on that season with all the people here on Bleacher Report that went through the ups and downs of the Cleveland Indians' 2008 season.
There were loads more than this that stopped by and contributed throughout the year, and I thank them for all their hard work and hope to see them in 2009.
But much appreciation to fellow community leader Michael Taylor, Samantha Bunten, Jeff Smirnoff, and Chris Davies for taking the time to help me remember 2008, one last time.
For one last time concerning the 2008 season, I shout "Go Tribe!" But, from here on out, the focus shifts to 2009 and all the possibility of great things happening for our beloved Indians.
I asked all to fill out a ballot of awards; you can see all the answers provided. They also summarized their picks below or in paragraph forum. I also asked what the Indians needed to do in the 2008-2009 offseason, and Chris Davies, Michael Taylor, and I all answered.
Team MVP: Cliff Lee
22 wins and the league leader in ERA. The Tribe boasts the AL Cy Young winner again. It just isn't the guy we thought it would be.
Offensive MVP: Grady Sizemore
If he'd kept the average over .300, he would have had a shot at the A.L. MVP, even on a non-contender.
Breakout Performance: Kelly Shoppach
There should be no question as to whom this team's primary catcher will be in 2009.
Starter of the Year: Cliff Lee
Duh.
Reliever of the Year: Rafael Perez
Maybe we should change this category to "Least Awful Reliever of the Year."
Unsung Hero: Jamey Carroll
Most reliable utility guy we've had in years.
Web Gem: Asdrubal Cabrera Triple Play
With apologies to Sizemore, history demands that this honor go to Cabrera's feat.
Lasting Memory: Fausto Carmona and Gary Sheffield Brawl
Thinking of Fausto popping Sheffield in the nose will never stop being funny.
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about 1 month ago
It's great to see everyone's opinions about this year. Great job Nino, I hope next year is just as good and hopefully the Tribe will give us some good stuff to write about.
about 1 month ago
Reading over this and seeing the names in the minor leagues, it makes me happy I will be in so close to Columbus to watch these kids. I mean a team with Hodges, LaPorta, Brantley, Crowe, Huff, A. Miller, Sipp, Scott Lewis (likely at the start), Jeff Stevens, and so on. The next wave is here. I can't wait.
Thanks for putting this together Nino! With the Browns sucking it up again it is a countdown to spring training once again in C-town, because the Cavs really don't matter :)
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