Cleveland Indians Roundtable: Remaining moves to make

Our Cleveland Indians Roundtable series continues with this week’s topic set on remaining moves the Tribe could or should make this offseason. Last week’s edition covered our bold predictions for the season.

Brandon Kring

The Cleveland Indians have been relatively quiet in the offseason but with the slow-moving market they can without a doubt still make some moves. They did well to avoid arbitration with everyone eligible except for Trevor Bauer.

They made their big “splash” signing when they signed Yonder Alonso to replace the loss of Carlos Santana. Many expect that to be the final move of any substantial relevance. However, the team could benefit from the slow market this offseason.

The Indians reportedly have talked to the Orioles about acquiring Manny Machado. This would send shock waves through the majors as Machado is in the final year of his contract but could still cost the Tribe a pretty penny.

The move could cost the Indians one or both of their top two prospects. This would all but drain the farm of its last remaining pieces of what was once a loaded minor league system.

A less groundbreaking move could be to sign Austin Jackson back on a team friendly deal. Jackson battled some injuries but provided a spark when in the lineup. He also still has good defensive ability, and showed that by giving fans a great play in Boston last year.

The Indians could look to add some outfield depth with Michael Brantley expected to not be quite ready for Opening Day. The possibility of Jason Kipnis playing left field while Brantley rehabs is also strong.

The Tribe is definitely in position to succeed again in 2018 in the weak AL Central. Adding depth or another big signing taking advantage of the slow-moving winter market could put them right back in the World Series favorites conversation.