Cleveland Indians: Will a big named player be added prior to the deadline?

The Cleveland Indians could use some help for the stretch run, but will a big move actually happen?

Two days separate the Cleveland Indians from the 2017 MLB non-waiver trade deadline. The names most intriguing that have been linked to the Tribe are starting pitchers, mainly Oakland A’s’ Sonny Gray and Texas Rangers’ Yu Darvish.

Other names have been mentioned, but some not much traction appears to have been made. Regardless, Cleveland is reviewing many different alternatives as they look to upgrade the roster.

Maybe, just maybe Cleveland does do whatever it takes to land another top pitcher. However, another outfield bat would certainly help too.

As we sit back and watch what unfolds over the next few days, don’t be surprised if nothing is done by the end of the 31st. Why exactly?

According to MLB Network‘s Ken Rosenthal, Cleveland is looking to add bullpen or bench help, but their moves could be made in August. Yes, that would mean the Indians would need to acquire players who clears waivers.

Sources: #Indians’ most likely moves are for bullpen or bench help. Could be active in August.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 29, 2017

If those are the options, why not both? Adding another lefty would be ideal. In addition, someone who could replace utilityman Erik Gonzalez or be an upgrade over outfielder Brandon Guyer could work too.

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Despite Rosenthal’s recent news, I still hold out hope that something is done soon — even if it is not the splash many wants. I know the chances of adding a Gray or Darvish are low, but other solid options could be better for the Indians in the short-term.

As long as starter Danny Salazar keeps up with the way he pitches and the rest of the starters stay healthy, there is no dire need to add another starter. If Cleveland did though, moving one of their starters to the bullpen would greatly improve their options late in games.

Sure, they rely on relievers Andrew Miller and Cody Allen heavily, but by adding another arm, those two won’t get too overworked.

Should Cleveland go about strictly adding bench help, adding someone like Gonzalez would not cut it. If the Tribe did that, they would be better off not making a deal. No, former Indians infielder and current New York Met Asdrubal Cabrera does not improve that role either.

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So, will Cleveland add someone prior to the 31st? Will they add anyone in August? What about both? Since there has been smoke with a number of names already, it is hard to imagine them not at least getting close to making a deal in the next two days. Stay tuned to see what happens!

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