Indians Trying Infielders as Outfielders?

I know spring training is a time to try  new things, to find the best player for the right position, to form the best line up, etc. But can somebody explain to me what the Indians are trying to do by putting their infielders in the outfield? Before going into spring training, rumors were circling around Cleveland that Ryan Garko could see time in the outfield to make room for both Victor Martinez and Kelly Shoppach in the infield. Garko has seen some playing time in the outfield so far this spring training. Is Garko an outfielder? No! He is a 1st baseman and a catcher. What is the rationale behind this?

In today’s loss to the Rangers, the Indians chose to have Josh Barfield play in the outfield. Is there a good explanation for this? No. It’s just Wedge’s way of trying to keep average players around. Does he really think Barfield will ever have a chance in the outfield come April? I sure hope not. Between Sizemore, Francisco, Choo, Dellucci and even Crowe, I think the Indians outfield is pretty well stocked. Do the Indians really need to keep a below average hitter on the team? Besides, that position in the outfield is filled by Dellucci.

So what’s next for the Indians this spring training? Cliff Lee playing catcher? There doesn’t seem to be any rationa decisions down in Goodyear. Instead of looking like a team who is getting ready for a 162 game season, it looks like the local little league team.

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