Skip to content

Report: Indians involved in Chapman, Miller pursuit

Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The AL Central-leading Cleveland Indians are reportedly on the hunt for a high-profile bullpen arm to help bolster their playoff chances down the stretch.

Previously linked to Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman, the Indians are said to be "in on" teammate Andrew Miller as well, according to FanRag's Jon Heyman, who says the bullpen remains Cleveland's No. 1 priority ahead of the August 1 trade deadline.

Talks surrounding Chapman have reportedly intensified in recent days, as ESPN's Buster Olney reported Wednesday that the Yankees have begun to shape up potential trades for their All-Star left-hander. The Indians are believed to be among the teams showing interest in acquiring Chapman, who's expiring contract would likely be a good match for Cleveland's cost-conscious roster management.

Miller is also on a reasonably-priced deal, with $18 million owed over the next two seasons, though he's expected to command more from a player acquisition-cost than Chapman given his contract certainty. Both pitchers continue to pile up dominant results in spite of the Yankees' inconsistent play this season.

For the Indians, the acquisition of either reliever would be a welcomed addition to a bullpen that's performed to a 4.70 ERA over the last 30 days. Bryan Shaw, the club's usually reliable set-up option, has been among the more disappointing members of Cleveland's relief corp, having authored a 4.46 ERA (4.57 FIP) and a career-high four walks per nine innings this season.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox