As expected, the Indians promoted Ross Atkins to director of player development Monday.
He replaces John Farrell, who was hired as pitching coach for the Red Sox last week.
Even though Atkins has spent the past three years as the team's director of Latin American operations, he doesn't feel isolated from the Tribe's farm system.
``My knowledge is not nearly what it's going to be or as extensive as John Farrell's,'' Atkins said. ``But John always kept me in the loop, so it's a matter of refocusing.''
As director of player development, Atkins will oversee the Indians' six farm teams, as well as Latin American operations. He and assistant general manager Chris Antonetti will pick his successor.
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