Cleveland Indians: Remembering Rajai Davis’ time in Cleveland once again

Lost in the shuffle of the latest big news was the fact Rajai Davis has left the Cleveland Indians for a second time. His legacy will never be forgotten.

Michael Brantley signing with the Houston Astros is the big news from the start of this week.

That makes sense, given the Cleveland Indians seemingly could have matched the offer given by the Astros for the veteran outfielder. Alas, the Indians must have valued him at a different level.

At the same time of Brantley’s departure, Rajai Davis decided to sign a minor league contract with the New York Mets.

The fit is there given Mickey Callaway is the manager and Rajai shows up as a low-cost, low-risk move. He seems like a perfect fit for a National League team with his ability to pinch run and steal bases at will.

Davis did appear in 101 games for the Indians last season, but only had 196 at-bats as he was not a regular starter. He did steal 21 bases, which is impressive given the lack of playing time.

His return was exciting but it was clear that he was not going to make a major impact. His legacy will always be about his game-tying home run in Game 7 of the 2016 World Series. It was a magical moment no one will ever forget, but it doesn’t mean the Indians should keep him out of nostalgia.

Along with Mike Napoli, Davis is a player who didn’t spend much time in Cleveland, but one who will always hold a special place in the city. His second departure is one we knew was coming and it is easy to be happy for him on his way out.

The same can’t be said about Brantley joining the Astros.