Relief Pitcher (R) Height: 6’3” Weight: 225 lb.
Born: 9-10-77, Pinar Del Rio, Cuba
Age at MLB Debut: 21
Quick Stats
2000 A+ (Age 22) 49.2 IP , 4.71 ERA, 56 K, 20 BB
2000 AA (Age 22) 102.2 IP, 3.68 ERA, 77 K, 32 BB
2001 AA (Age 23) 2.0 IP, 0.00 ERA, 2 K, 0 BB
2001 AAA (Age 23) 25.1 IP, 3.20 ERA, 30 K, 9 BB
2001 AL (Age 23) 50.1 IP, 2.50 ERA, 52 K, 20 BB
2002 AL (Age 24) 165.1 IP, 4.41 ERA,130 K, 82 BB
2003 AL (Age 25)
Signed as an undrafted free agent (Cuba), 11-99
Comments:
4-1-03
Danys was moved into a different role for the third straight year, and it looks like the closer’s role is where Baez will stay the length of his stay in Cleveland. In 2001, he thrived as a set-up man and played a crucial role as the eighth-inning pitcher for the Indians. Now he’ll be pitching the 9th. If he can cut down on the walks, he’ll be one of the better closers in the league.
7-15-03
He’s had his blowups, including a total meltdown against the Mariners early in the year, but for the most part has been an effective albeit overpaid closer. His contract is up at the end of the year, and may or may not be eligible for arbitration, so his salary will continue to go up from now on. With at least $12M (1/4 of the team salary) invested in Baez and Wickman next year, Baez might be shopped after the season.
Contract: 4 Years (2000-2003), $14.5M (signed 11-99)
2003 Salary: $5.125M
Arbitration: 2004
Free Agency: 2007
Started 2000 in A Kinston
5-23-00 – Promoted to AA Akron
Fall 2000 Pitched for Phoenix Desert Dogs in AFL
3-20-01 - Optioned to Buffalo (ST)
5-12-01 – Recalled from AAA Buffalo (MLB Debut)
5-23-01 – Optioned to AAA Buffalo
7-2-01 - Recalled from AAA Buffalo
11-15-03: Outrighted to Buffalo (AAA)
11-20-03: Contract Purchased by Cleveland
12-20-03: Non-tendered by Cleveland; Became a free agent
2002: 7th Strikeouts/9IP (7.08)
4th BB Allowed (82)