In his brief career with the Indians, shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera has, at one time or another, hit everywhere in the lineup but fourth and fifth. Cabrera's two most frequent spots in the lineup have been second and ninth.

That's going to change in 2010, however, with the announcement by manager Manny Acta that he intends to move Cabrera into the leadoff spot. Acta said Grady Sizemore will move from leadoff to No. 2.

Last year, Cabrera's two most frequent spots in the batting order were first and second, and he did well in both. He hit .301 leading off and .311 hitting second.

One of Acta's motives for moving Cabrera into the leadoff spot is that Cabrera is a switch hitter.

Jake Westbrook allowed a run and three walks in 1 2-3 innings in his first game against major-league hitters since May 2008, and the Cleveland Indians beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 3-2 on Monday. Westbrook said he felt strong and was encouraged by his first outing since undergoing Tommy John surgery.

Andy Marte hit a two-run homer to lead the Cleveland Indians to a 4-2 win over the Cincinnati Reds on Saturday. David Huff pitched two scoreless innings and the Indians, whose pitching staff was among the worst in the AL last year, have given up four runs in their first two exhibition games. "Another well-pitched ballgame makes us happy," Acta said "That's what we're trying...

As one of baseball's rising young stars, Shin-Soo Choo has a bright future. Due to circumstances beyond his control, the Cleveland Indians outfielder and native of South Korea is uncertain if that future will be interrupted. Choo put together a solid all-around season in 2009, but he faces a potential problem that has nothing to do with baseball.

Russell Branyan is back with the Cleveland Indians. Not only that, the 34-year-old veteran is expected to get the majority of playing time at first base when the season opens April 5. "We didn't sign him to be a backup guy," manager Manny Acta said after the Indians announced Branyan's signing Wednesday.