Cleveland's once future superstar Grady Sizemore becomes free agent [View All]

[Auggie]

ESPN.com news services / ESPN.com news services

CLEVELAND -- Once the Indians' leadoff hitter, their constantly hustling All-Star outfielder and the undisputed face of their franchise, Grady Sizemore meant everything to Cleveland.

It couldn't last forever.

The Indians declined Sizemore's $9 million contract option for 2012 on Monday, cutting ties with the popular injury-plagued center fielder and making him eligible for free agency.

"This was an exceptionally difficult decision," general manager Chris Antonetti said. "We have a profound respect for Grady, his work ethic, his intensity and all the attributes he brings to the game. Baseball is a better game when Grady Sizemore is on the field playing."

MORE: http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/7173950/cleveland-indians-decline-grady-sizemore-deal

The article mentions his injury total: limited to 210 games the past three seasons.... has undergone five surgeries -- two on his knees -- in the past three years. No longer a stealing threat. Personally, I thought his defensive and baserunning play was rather reckless and that offensively he often exhibited a lack of discipline at the plate. But that's IMO. Still, I wouldn't mind seeing him in a Giants uniform -- if he can stay healthy.

Meanwhile, Cleveland has acquired pitcher Derek Lowe from the Braves... who posted a 9-17 record in 2011. :eyes: