Bobby Abreu Rumors: Angels, Indians Talking Trade

Last evening, Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com reported that the Los Angeles Angels and Cleveland Indians were “on the verge” of completing a trade involving veteran outfielder and designated hitter Bobby Abreu.  A source later told FOX Sports that a deal between the Angels and Indians is not guaranteed, and added that chances of an Abreu trade were “50-50”.  According to the source, the amount of money the Angels would include in the trade to offset Abreu’s $9 million salary is holding up an agreement.

Abreu has been extremely vocal this offseason and spring, stating his displeasure regarding his expected reduced role with the Angles.  LA has several corner outfield/designated hitter type players, and Abreu was likely to experience decreased playing time in 2012.  Abreu has gone as far as saying that the Angels should trade him if they are unable to offer him a significant number of at-bats.

Meanwhile, the Indians have been in the market for an outfielder since they learned Grady Sizemore would begin the season on their disabled list.

While 107 of his 135 games started last season came as the Angels DH, Abreu did play either left or right field for 134 games in 2010.  Abreu saw a significant drop-off in power last season (.365 slugging percentage), but continued to get on base at an above average clip (.353 OBP).

If the Indians do acquire Abreu, they would likely insert him as their left fielder and move Michael Brantley to center to fill in for Sizemore.

This deal seems to make too much sense for both of the teams involved not to get done.

For more on the Angels and Indians, be sure to check out Halo Hangout and Wahoo’s on First.

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