Cleveland Indians: 5 players to target at the trade deadline

Both Yan Gomes and Roberto Perez are having good defensive seasons. Gomes has been one of the best at throwing runners out this year. On the negative, both Gomes and Perez have essentially limited the Cleveland Indians’ lineup to eight players. They have both been really bad hitters.

If the Tribe moves on, it makes sense to move on from Gomes, since his contract expires sooner, and they just signed Perez to a long extension. Perez was never a long-term starter any way.

How does Yan Gomes go? How would the Tribe manage three catchers on its roster? Gomes is 29 and still has $13 million left on his contract. His contract might be harder to move. Would the Indians think about cutting Gomes if they snagged a starter? To be determined.

Regarding targets, the options are limited. The primary option would be Detroit Tigers catcher Alex Avila, who is crushing it behind the plate offensively. The Tigers are in sell mode, or will be soon, and Avila will be a key trade option for the Tribe.

If the Tribe received Avila, they would have a decision to make. Avila is making no money ($2 million on a one-year deal), so he would not be a burden there. If the Tribe thinks it’s time to move on from Gomes, would a rental like Avila work? They do have Francisco Meija waiting in the wings, so that is something to consider.