Cleveland Indians: Three last minute free agent additions to explore

Neil Walker

It’s been more than a handful of seasons since Neil Walker collected the Silver Slugger award, but at 35-years old he could still be a player that the Cleveland Indians should explore. Having played multiple positions, Walker offers a veteran presence at multiple spots while also offering a stable glove at the first base position.

Bobby Bradley and Jake Bauers are currently the two lead horses in the race for first base, but neither have an all-around game yet. Bradley has offense, but needs improvement in the field while Bauers is the opposite. If the Indians feel that neither are ready, then Walker could be a veteran option to add.

While most of Walker’s experience has been at second base, he still has almost 1,000 innings at first with a .995 fielding percentage. Having a reliable glove like that at a position in question would be a smart addition to the bench, or maybe even the starting lineup. Also, his ability to play second, third and even the outfield makes it easier to justify giving him a roster spot.

I will say that Walker’s bat has slowed down some, slashing .231/.244/.308 last season, but those numbers are still better than Bauers in terms of a defensive first basemen and his fielding is more reassuring than Bradley. Also, being near the end of his career, this would be a cheap, low-risk deal for the Indians.