Indians' Axford grateful for 2013 trade

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Newly-signed Indians closer John Axford understands that his current job is largely a function of a turbulent 2013 season, where ineffectiveness prompted a trade to St. Louis that allowed him to re-establish his value, reports John Lott of the National Post.

“I obviously wouldn’t have been in the World Series, and I don’t think I would be in the position I’m in right now with the Cleveland Indians if I wasn’t traded [from Milwaukee],” he said. “[The St. Louis] coaching staff really helped me out, picking that up and helping me along the way for those two months. And pitching well, and pitching well in the playoffs – I think that’s what really catapulted the opportunity for me to be a closer again.”

Once regarded among the top closers in the game, Axford struggled for a second successive season in 2013, posting a 4.45 ERA with a 1.56 WHIP across 62 appearances with the Brewers.  The 30-year-old's ineffectiveness compelled the Brewers to ship him to St. Louis, where Axford shined, authoring a 1.74 ERA over 13 outings.

Though he wasn't able to secure a World Series title with the Cardinals, Axford is excited about his new opportunity with the Indians.

“It’s a young team, it’s a close team, and it seems like a tight clubhouse, and that’s kind of what I like,” he said.