Among the holes remaining for the Cleveland Indians to fill on their 2013 roster is that of the designated hitter. In a piece written on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2013, by John Boarman of the Yardbarker network, the author speculates the Indians could indeed bring back Hafner to fulfill that role, but for far less than the $13 million option the team declined at the beginning of the offseason.
Hafner is 35 years old and has not appeared in more than 100 games since 2007 due to injuries. The Indians however could offer a low base salary full of performance bonuses and take their chance. Expectations would not nearly be that high due to past performance. It would be a risky move, but an option nonetheless.
Since waiving right-handed batter Russ Canzler and losing him to the New York Yankees, the Indians’ remaining options at DH currently on the roster rest with Mike Aviles, Tim Fedroff, and Chris McGuiness.
There is still plenty of time for additional free agent signings, albeit cash is drying up, or the potential for a trade that could find a player filling that role. However GM Chris Antonetti said late last week that Hafner is a viable free agent option at the right price.
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