Say goodbye to that unbelievable glove, that fun-loving personality and that jovial man who used to play imaginary drums in the dugout. Say goodbye to Omar.

News broke Nov. 14, when longtime Cleveland Indians shortstop Omar Vizquel signed a three-year contract with the San Francisco Giants. The deal is reportedly worth $12.25 million.

Vizquel filed for free agency last month when the Indians decided not to pick up his $5 million option for the 2005 season. Vizquel had said he wanted to return for his 12th season in Cleveland. But negotiations were unsuccessful, as General Manager Mark Shapiro is focusing on acquiring pitchers this off-season.

The 37-year-old Vizquel is a nine-time Gold Glove winner. Last season, he batted .291 with seven home runs and 59 RBI, while stealing 19 bases and scoring 82 runs. He did not commit an error over the last 55 games of the season.

With the departure of Vizquel, the Indians no longer have any members of the 1997 American League Championship team left on their roster.

Since he took over as General Manager prior to the 2001 season, Shapiro has been adamant about cutting costs and rebuilding. He has promised that 2005 will see the Indians' return to the postseason.

In his career with the Tribe, Vizquel has been a fan favorite.

Senior Brian Reilly is unhappy about Vizquel's departure.

"I'm so sad," he said. "Not only is Omar a good player, but he is also a good rôle model with positive values and a good work ethic. He will be missed."