New Indians manager Trent Jewett answers questions about his team.

But, with a change in affiliation to the Pirates’ organization, this year the downtown destination promises to be a great venue with a competitive minor-league ball team on the field.

This was demonstrated as the Indians swept their first home stand on the season last week, beating the Pawtucket Red Sox in all four games.

Indians President Max Schumacher said the reason for the change in affiliation from Milwaukee to Pittsburgh was “The Indians were given a non-competitive team for four consecutive years by the Milwaukee Brewers. We insist on competitive baseball in Indianapolis.”

Last year’s Indians finished 66-78 and 14 games out of first place. That probably won’t happen this season. “The Pirates’ farm system was rated fourth out of 30 major league teams in terms of minor league player personnel,” Schumacher added.

Another positive change will be the addition of Trent Jewett as manager. He becomes the 57th skipper in Indians history and brings 13 years of experience in the Pirates organization. “The organization has tremendous tradition. It’s a ballclub with a great number of talented players and I know it will continue to have major league stars in the future,” Jewett said.

The Indians play home games at 2 p.m. April 13 and 14 and then go on the road for a week before returning April 23 for a nine-game home stand at Victory Field. For more information visit www.indyindians.com.