Cleveland Indians: Potential under-the-radar trades for the Tribe

Cleveland Indians look for a different utility-man in Derek Dietrich

As stated in the case for Jon Berti, the Indians need to look towards upgrading their utility players and Derek Dietrich would definitely be an upgrade. Having the ability to play almost every position with the exception of catcher and shortstop, Dietrich has a lot of tools that would benefit the Tribe.

Unlike Hamilton and Berti who are known for their ability in the field and on the bases, Dietrich’s ability comes primarily at the plate. Currently the Indians lack a true left-handed bat in the lineup beyond the surging Naquin and Dietrich would help that cause.

He would also supply more pop to the lineup when needed, especially as a power bat off the bench. Dietrich has increased his home run total each year since 2016. In 2017 he hit 13, then 16 in 2018 and 19 a year ago.

One thing that the Indians have lacked so far this season is someone in the order to bat behind Franmil Reyes and protect him from being walked around. Naquin has also started to settle into that role, but Dietrich provides another option. He could be placed in left field and bat behind Reyes, solving two issues of the team’s.

The Rangers don’t have many minor league pitchers and although Jean Carlos Mejia isn’t a huge prospect, being Cleveland’s No. 29 prospect on their Top 30, he could be of value to the Rangers. With the Indians he’s roadblocked by their elite talent, but with Texas he could make an impact.