Wahoo’s on First discusses the relative merits of Matt LaPorta and Michael Brantley, both players acquired in the CC Sabathia trade. LaPorta disappointed so far, while Brantley turned out to be a bit of a surprise.

No one on the Indians’ roster gets a worse rap than Matt LaPorta. The centerpiece of the package that cost CC Sabathia was supposed to be an intimidating slugger who could anchor the Tribe’s lineup for years to come. But after three disappointing seasons in the majors, he’ll have to fight to keep his starting job at first base and might not even have a spot on the Opening Day roster.

This reminds me of Andy Marte. The Indians traded for that top prospect, who turned out to have a long swing and never made it in the majors. LaPorta has neither gotten on base nor hit for power in his three seasons in the majors.

Is there a problem in the Indians scouting department when it comes to sluggers? It is possible that depend too much on minor league numbers and not enough on watching the player?