October 28, 2002
I'll have to look this up, but I remember when I was younger that Wedge types were prevelent as mangers (minor league catchers with little major league experience). This may turn out to be a very good choice.
The Indians, who began rebuilding midway through last season by trading away some high-priced veterans, had 19 rookies on their roster by the end of the season.
Wedge managed many of them in Buffalo on their way to joining the Indians.
In two seasons, Wedge led the Bisons to a 178-108 record and he was named The Sporting News' minor league manager of the year this past season.
Bill James has pointed out that minor league success often leads to major league success. If this holds true, the Indians could be poised for a quick resurgence, similar to the gains made by the Twins over the last two years. If anyone from Buffalo has watched Wedge manage, I'd be interested in hearing about his tactics.
Posted by David Pinto at
10:24 AM
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Baseball