by Kenny Lofton gets traded in 96 to the Atlanta Braves for Marquis Grissom and David Justice
Grissom and Justice were a big reason the Indians made it to one half of an inning away from winning the 1997 World Series. They would then re-sign Lofton only weeks after the 97 season. Talk about a fleecing!
Does it suck to lose Frankie? Yes! Does it suck to lose the club franchise name after 100 years? Yes! Will you still watch and pay for tickets? Time will tell, but I’m thinking yes!
The Indians will never sign any of their homegrown stars. Don’t get too attached to the name on the back of the uniform. The name on the front is more important. Enjoy them while you have them(eg. Jose Ramirez, Shane Bieber)
Also, being a contender is not good enough. I saw those examples below. Eventually you have to win the whole thing!