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Cleveland Indians: Evaluating the Tribe’s upcoming free agents

By Kyle Edmond

CLEVELAND, OH - SEPTEMBER 23: Brad Hand #33 of the Cleveland Indians pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the ninth inning at Progressive Field on September 23, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Indians defeated the White Sox 3-2. (Photo by Ron Schwane/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - SEPTEMBER 23: Brad Hand #33 of the Cleveland Indians pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the ninth inning at Progressive Field on September 23, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Indians defeated the White Sox 3-2. (Photo by Ron Schwane/Getty Images) /
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Cleveland Indians, Roberto Perez
CLEVELAND, OH – SEPTEMBER 27: Roberto Perez #55 of the Cleveland Indians bats during the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Progressive Field on September 27, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images) /

Roberto Perez – 2021 Club Option

With two years left of options on his current deal, Roberto Perez probably has the highest likelihood of returning on this list. The possibility of Perez not returning might even be below one percent.

While the 2020 season was a regression from Perez’s 2019 offensive outburst, he is still regarded as one of the best defensive catchers in baseball. His mind behind the plate is practically priceless. Him being behind the plate has been one of the key factors in the continued success of Cleveland’s pitching staff.

For that reason, his 2021 option of $5.5 million for next year seems like a bargain. During the 2020 season, Perez was perfect behind the plate with a 100% fielding percentage while also leading the majors in caught stealing percentage at an astounding 71%, the second consecutive season he led the stat.

His slash line of .165/.264/.216 is not good by any means, but his defense capabilities by far make up for it and make his contract well worth it. Most times, offensive production is just a plus from the catcher spot and Perez will sometimes have those moments. Defense is where the money goes and Perez’s option gives the Indians one of the best deals in baseball.

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