Further paring of the roster.

The Indians on Thursday optioned Tony Sipp and Brian Slocum to Buffalo. It was expected for both players to be in Buffalo, although Slocum's strained groin hastened the process for him.

Sipp is seen as a valuable relief prospect for the Indians. A lefthander with good velocity who is able to get righties out as well as lefties, he has the potential to be as good as Rafael Perez. However, Sipp missed 2007 with an elbow injury that was initially tried to rehab non-surgically, but eventually he had Tommy John surgery. He's expected back in mid-season, and becomes a potential member of the 2009 Indians bullpen.

Slocum strained his groin Wednesday, but should be fine. He is a former 2nd round pick of the Indians who has made steady if unspectacular progress through the system. He missed most of 2007 with a variety of injuries. He is the sort of player every team needs - able to be called up to spot start, or able to be moved easily off the 40 man roster without great loss if necessary. Slocum is never likely to be more than a fifth starter, and is likely to be the kind of player who rides the shuttle between AAA and the majors.