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

Billy Hamilton #21 of the New York Mets (Photo by Hunter Martin/Getty Images)
Billy Hamilton #21 of the New York Mets (Photo by Hunter Martin/Getty Images) /
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Boston Red Sox, Kevin Pillar
Kevin Pillar #5 of the Boston Red Sox (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

Cleveland Indians deal pitcher for veteran outfielder

The players talked about so far are role guys that come off the bench or sub in when needed, but this is the first one that could be in the lineup almost everyday. A great outfielder, Kevin Pillar has made improvements at the plate while being on a one-year deal.

A year ago Pillar made strides at the plate, increasing his home run total to 21, his RBI total to 87 while maintaining his stolen base total at 14 and his average around .260. His numbers this year have dipped slightly for pace, but he is still a solid option at the plate and better than most of the Indians’ other options in the outfield.

Pillar doesn’t jump off the page in any stats, but he’s just a solid option across the board. He draws walks, steals bases and hits the occasional home run.

As for what the Indians are giving up, it’s the highest price they’ve had so far in this article. At 25, Scott Moss is also stuck in his position behind the Indians’ stellar rotation. In Boston, he would have a shot to start in the majors.

The price is high, but Pillar is the only every day option on this list. He wouldn’t break the bank for the Indians or warrant a big prospect in return, but he could make a big difference in Cleveland’s lineup down the stretch.