Cleveland Indians' Manager Eric Wedge Signs Contract Extension

Good or Bad Move?

Perhaps rewarding him for having what is arguably his best season at the helm, the Indians have extended manager Eric Wedge's contract through 2010. While some are puzzled by this move, it comes at a time when the Indians are battling for first place in the toughest division in baseball, the American League Central.
Wedge has helped the team rebound quite well from what was a very disappointing 78-win season in 2006.

The Indians have done plenty of things right so far in 2007, but what is more impressive is what the team has been able to accomplish in the face of adversity. Eric Wedge has kept this team competitive all season, despite the four-game snow-out in April, injuries to Jake Westbrook and Cliff Lee, and the lack of production from free agent signings David Dellucci and Trot Nixon. Also, the offense has been clicking well all season, even as Travis Hafner has had his issues.

So, while some may ask "why are they doing it now?", I would say "why not?" The team is performing well, possibly even above expectations in some people's minds. GM Mark Shapiro constantly reiterates that he is intent on keeping the core group of players around, so why shouldn't he keep the coach around as well? The players respond well to him and Wedge's never-give-up mentality has certainly struck a chord in the clubhouse.

It's a good move for the team, and yet another example of how Larry Dolan and Mark Shapiro kept their word about keeping key personnel.

The July 17, 2007 edition of The Plain Dealer (Cleveland) ran responses from readers about the extension of Eric Wedge. Naturally, there were positive reactions, but here are three of the more - interesting ones, followed by my reaction:

Mrtk31: "Another joke played on the fans! Maybe we should sell out a few games to show the Dolans how we feel. Do they not see empty seats? Do they not see constant baseball errors? Can anyone bunt? Wedge and GM Mark Shapiro can both go - but who to replace them?"