MLB Roundup 1/30: The Indians are getting rid of the Chief Wahoo logo

The Indians are getting rid of Chief Wahoo uniforms for 2019

It’s been a longtime coming, but the day has finally come where the Cleveland Indians are getting rid of the Chief Wahoo logo for the 2019 season, according to the New York Times. Although it hasn’t been quite as controversial as the Washington football team’s name, the Indians logo has been one of the more embarrassing parts of Major League Baseball for a long time. Rob Manfred has said he’s been trying to make this happen for a couple years now, and the team has finally come around. There are always going to be fans who will defend this logo, as people will always defend any institution that has been around for such a long time. It’s hard to deny that this logo is horribly racist, though, and it’s refreshing that we will finally be rid of this black mark during games. Of course, it should be mentioned that the Indians didn’t completely part way with the logo. Although it won’t be sold on MLB.com and other affiliates, it can still be sold in other retail locations. The organization will still be profiting off the logo, which is not great. It’s not quite time to throw Cleveland a parade, but at least they are making a step in the right direction.

• There was a mildly interesting trade Monday night between the Royals and the Athletics. Oakland will be receiving first baseman (and former Red Sox prospect) Brandon Moss along with left-handed reliever Ryan Buchter in exchange for right-handed pitcher Jesse Hahn and minor-league pitcher Heath Fillmyer. The Royals are the most interesting side of this, as they now have an open spot at first base and are presumably expecting to bring back Eric Hosmer.
• Freddie Freeman wants to be a Brave forever, according to this interview (Warning: It’s a video). He certainly wouldn’t be the first player to say this and then eventually leave town, but this is still a bit disheartening for those who had (unrealistic) dreams of Freeman coming to Boston. The Red Sox will have to find their future first baseman elsewhere.