Daniel Shirey-US PRESSWIRE

Last month, the Indians came to terms on a minor-league deal with journeyman infielder Julio Lugo. Though there was no risk in a non-guaranteed deal, it was a questionable move considering that the Indians already had two young, reasonably high-upside candidates for their utility infield role—Jason Donald and Cord Phelps—as well as two other veterans coming to spring training on minor-league deals (Andy LaRoche and Jose Lopez).

Now, MLB.com’s Jordan Bastian reports that the deal is off. There’s no word on what caused the snafu, but Bastian said matters of money and terms of incentives had already been agreed upon and suggested that Lugo had probably failed his physical.

If the problem is Lugo’s health, that’s regrettable on a personal level—I certainly have no intention of rejoicing in another person’s physical problems. But from the Indians’ standpoint, that Lugo won’t be in the fold is probably a good thing. (more…)

Cleveland GM Chris Antonetti has said that LaRoche, 28, will compete for a spot on the Opening Day roster, which should have been fairly obvious (why else would the Indians have signed him?). “His defensive versatility and right-handed bat complement our other projected infielders,” he told MLB.com’s Jordan Bastian.

It’s a good deal for the Indians in that they’re committing nothing and possibly getting something in return. LaRoche definitely has some upside, and on a minor-league deal the Indians don’t have anything to lose by bringing him aboard. But despite Antonetti’s vote of confidence, it’s hard to see LaRoche making a substantial positive impact for the Tribe in 2012. (more…)