Wednesday, June 07, 2006

Edward Mujica Forcing Way Into Indians Picture

In prospect Edward Mujica the Indians have found a potential setup man, future closer and backup for 37-year-old closer Bob Wickman. Wickman has always been regarded as a risk as he has had four stints on the disabled list since 2002 and missed almost the entire season in 2003. Mujica, 22, has developed a reliable changeup to complement his 94-mph fastball, and now owns a 0.00 ERA in 32.3 innings in combined stops for AAA Buffalo and AA Akron. Mujica likely would win the bullpen spot of Guillermo Mota, 35, who was brought in to compete with Wickman for the closer's role but who has been underperforming due to lingering effects of previous injuries. Mota is 0-3 with an 7.82 ERA. Mujica could be called up at any moment.