4-8-09 Morning Roundup

Today is another opening day as the Double A Akron Aeros are supposed to kick off its season against the Bowie Baysox 7:05 p.m. tonight at Canal Park.

Ohio.com Aeros beat reporter Stephanie Storm is getting the season started by talking to the Indian's most-heralded prospect, Carlos Santana.

The switch-hitting catcher draws comparisons to Victor Martinez for his offensive abilities.

Scroll down to the previous post to get a full series preview.

The Plain Dealer also took a minute to look at the Indian's minor league systems and how they have centralized them in Ohio. Single A Kinston (North Carolina) and the Indian's spring training complex in Arizona are the only two minor league clubs not in Ohio.

The Indians will be looking to bounce back from their dreadful debut Monday tonight. Although Terry Pluto writes that the shot Cliff Lee took off the elbow had more to do with the bad outing then anything.

Paul Hoynes wrote Lee did have some bright spots. Hoynes also notes that five of the last seven World Series champions lost its openers.

The Star-Telegram in Texas wrote that tonight's starting pitcher Vincente Padilla was the Ranger's best pitcher last year is now in a contract season.

The Rangers also got a smooth start from rookie shortstop Elvis Andrus and catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia. The two heralded prospects were traded to the Rangers from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for Mark Texiera two seasons ago.

The Rest...

Anthony Castrovince wrote about Travis Hafner's journey the past few seasons.

The Classic Indian's movie "Major League" is celebrating its 20th anniversary. It doesn't mention it in the story, but the Indians will have Rick Vaughn bobble head night on June 15th.