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Indians: 5 former Tribe players the team should bring back to bolster the squad

By Chad Porto

CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 07: Brad Miller #17 of the Cleveland Indians jokes with teammates prior to the game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Progressive Field on April 07, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 07: Brad Miller #17 of the Cleveland Indians jokes with teammates prior to the game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Progressive Field on April 07, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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SEATTLE, WA – JUNE 28: Asdrubal Cabrera #13 of the Cleveland Indians bats against the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field on June 28, 2014 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WA – JUNE 28: Asdrubal Cabrera #13 of the Cleveland Indians bats against the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field on June 28, 2014 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) /

Asdrubal Cabrera

A blast from the past, the former Indians shortstop has been playing first, second, and third since arriving with the Mets in 2017. Over the next four seasons, he’s played everywhere, including some shortstop, which would again cater to Terry Francona’s desire to have versatility on the bench. The best part though is that Cabrera is still a quality everyday starter, even if he’ll turn 35-years-old this year.

Cabrera was last seen on an Indians roster in 2014, year two of the Francona Era. During his time with the Indians, Cabrera went to two All-Star Games as a shortstop, won a Silver Slugger at the position, hit .270, 82 home runs, and 430 RBI’s in his time with the club.

He’s not too far off from those averages either. In the last full Major League season, he hit .260 with 18 home runs and 91 RBI’s at 33 years old. Most of those numbers topped his second All-Star season in 2012. Clearly, Cabrera is still capable of playing every day.

Not to mention, Cabrera only signed a one-year $2.5 million contract last year with the Nationals. Meaning he’s not going to require much more than that if even that much. His ability to be plugged in anywhere and play well, plus bringing a competent bat with him, makes him an ideal candidate to return.

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