Even after bringing in Marlon Byrd on a minor league deal last week, the Cleveland Indians are still looking to add depth to their outfield, Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reports.
According to Rosenthal, who cites "major league sources," the Indians aren't comfortable with the current state of their outfield and continue to engage other teams in trade dialogue. Among the names Cleveland is believed to have made available in any potential deals are Trevor Bauer, Josh Tomlin, Cody Anderson, Michael Clevinger and T.J. House. However, club officials don't think a trade is likely.
The key for the Indians will be the continued progress of Michael Brantley, who has been ahead of schedule in his recovery from offseason shoulder surgery. If Brantley is somehow healthy enough to open the season in left field, Cleveland will likely be content to use Rajai Davis in center and Lonnie Chisenhall in right.
If Brantley starts the season on the disabled list, however, the team might be more inclined to make a deal. Former first-round pick Tyler Naquin continues to be hot at the plate this spring (.400 average at 35 at-bats) and could also be a factor in the Tribe's willingness to look outside the organization for help.
