The Cleveland Indians could possibly soon set a timetable for the return of starting pitcher Roberto Hernandez, The Plain Dealer's Paul Hoynes noted in an article Saturday, March 24. With identity fraud charges relating to Hernandez falsely using the "Fausto Carmona" name settled and all the appropriate paperwork in place, the pitcher will likely receive his United States work visa shortly.
The starter formerly known as Fausto Carmona continues getting closer to rejoining the Cleveland Indians in the States.
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Despite Hernandez possessing a career plagued by inconsistencies, I'm excited about the pitcher's potential return. The way I see it, the Indians stand a great chance to benefit from the entire Fausto Carmona false identity situation.
As I previously mentioned in my article "Cleveland Indians Keeping Roberto Hernandez in Shape: A Fan's Reaction," Hernandez's secret getting outed by the press could reduce self-pressure previously felt by the starter. A more relaxed Roberto Hernandez will hopefully result in Hernandez pitching to his proven potential, rather than wavering start to start like he did in 2011.
Another plus for the Indians from the Fausto Carmona false identity scenario comes with lowering the financial risk tied to Hernandez. Prior to the issue the starter remained in line to earn $7 million for 2012, with club options for 2013 and 2014. Revisions to the contract now see Hernandez making $2.5 million for the upcoming season, as noted by Hoynes.
Additionally, one club option has been eliminated and the other reduced by $3 million. Anytime you can free up dollars on a budget like the one the Tribe operates on, we fans should feel good. The money saved might help land an impactful acquisition in the future when needed.
Perhaps the most encouraging element to the "Fausto Carmona" fallout entails the fact Cleveland can survive without Roberto Hernandez. If the worst case scenario pans out, Hernandez pitches horrible upon his return. Then either youngster Jeanmar Gomez or veteran Kevin Slowey, both currently competing for Hernandez's rotation spot, can step in as the full-time replacement.
Simply put, Roberto Hernandez provides the Cleveland Indians a luxury, not a need. A Hernandez who returns to good form transitions into a strong No. 3 starter, behind ace Justin Masterson and No. 2 starter Ubaldo Jimenez. On the other hand, if Hernandez's potential goes unfilled, expose him to waivers and give Gomez or Slowey a chance to shine.
Zachary Fenell fell in love with the Cleveland Indians during the 1995 season when the Tribe powered their way to the organization's first World Series appearance since 1954. While the Indians lost some allure since the 1990s you will still find Zachary watching the games on TV, listening to them on the radio, or best yet taking in a game from the stands at Progressive Field.
More from This Contributor:
Fan's Take: Exactly How Good Can the 2012 Cleveland Indians Be?
Cleveland Indians' Fifth Rotation Spot Up for Grabs: A Fan's Look
Fan's Take: Solace for Cleveland Indians Pitcher Fausto Carmona
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