November 8, 2008 Matt LaPorta has not gotten a hit in four straight VWL games and his average has fallen to .164. The outfielder has 22 strikeouts and six walks in 67 at-bats.
Our View:LaPorta was probably the best prospect the Indians received in the CC Sabathia trade. He did not play very well in Triple-A after the deal and is off to a rough start in the VWL. It appears he could still be at least a year away, but expect him to get a look in spring training.
October 2, 2008 Manager Eric Wedge commented on top prospect Matt LaPorta, according to the Akron Beacon Journal. When Wedge was asked if LaPorta has a chance to make the 2009 roster out of spring training, he answered, "I don't think he will do that out of spring training. But from what I've heard, he will get our attention."
Our View:He was the prized prospect acquired in the deal that shipped CC Sabathia to Milwaukee, and will work on furthering his development in the Venezualan Winter League this off-season.
September 7, 2008 LaPorta will play in the Venezuelan Winter League this off-season, according to The Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Our View:LaPorta was the centerpiece of the CC Sabathia trade, and he could compete for a spot on the Indians' roster during spring training, 2009.
August 25, 2008 Indians outfielder Matt LaPorta will not be among the Indians September call-ups, according to Indians.com.
Our View:Forget about getting a one-month boost for your fantasy team, though LaPorta is still dealing with the concussion he got at the Olympics.
August 19, 2008 Matt LaPorta appears to be fine after he was beaned in the head during Monday's game against Team China. "He had no symptoms of post-concussion syndrome when he woke up Tuesday morning," Indians head athletic trainer Lonnie Soloff informs the Cleveland Plain Dealer. LaPorta does have some soreness on the left side of his head and neck.
Our View:It sounds like LaPorta could come back during the Olympics, which is an excellent sign. The top-notch prospect could be up in the majors come September.
