Report: Indians interested in Shane Victorino
The Cleveland Indians don't appear to be in the market for a high-profile outfielder, but adding some depth at the position could be on the agenda.
The Indians contacted veteran outfielder Shane Victorino, according to Cleveland.com's Paul Hoynes.
Victorino, a two-time All-Star and World Series champion, split last season between the Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Angels, hitting .230/.308/.292 in 71 games. Injuries have been a concern for the 34-year-old over the past few seasons, as he's battled hamstring and back issues.
This isn't the first time the Indians have expressed interest in Victorino, according to Hoynes. The club reportedly offered him a four-year, $44-million pact in 2012, but he rejected it and instead accepted a three-year contract worth $39 million from Boston. Cleveland then set its sights on Nick Swisher, signing him for four years and $56 million.
Stud outfielder Michael Brantley is expected to miss the start of next season after undergoing shoulder surgery, leaving Cleveland with a projected starting outfield consisting of Lonnie Chisenhall, Abraham Almonte, and Jerry Sands.
The Indians have been relatively quiet on the free-agent market to this point, only signing catcher Anthony Recker and outfielder Shane Robinson to minor-league deals. They've also acquired right-hander Kirby Yates from the Tampa Bay Rays for cash considerations.
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