When Matt Adams agreed to sign with Washington for $4 million guaranteed, I took it to mean the Tribe might not be signing a first baseman anytime soon. So, I was stunned to learn Yonder Alonso had been added at twice the annual money. Help me comprehend the rationale behind choosing to pay twice as much for Alonso.
-- Mark L., Sandusky, Ohio
The Indians had interest in Adams, but it's safe to assume he was viewed as more of a strict platoon bat than Alonso. This is not to say that Alonso will always play against lefty pitchers -- his splits certainly indicate that some platooning would be advantageous for the Tribe -- but he has a better and longer track record.