Cleveland Indians: Finding options for the bullpen
By David Hill
While Raisel Iglesias may command more headlines, Jared Hughes could be of more interest to the Cleveland Indians.
In a way, trading Hughes now would appear to be a strange move for the Reds. He was signed to a two year deal this offseason, worth a combined $4.5 million before his 2020 team option. However, that longer term of team control could well be attractive to the Indians.
A solid option as a seventh inning arm, Hughes could be that needed replacement for Bryan Shaw. Thus far in 2018, Hughes has produced an excellent 1.42 ERA and a 1.083 WHiP, striking out 33 batters with only 12 walks in 44.1 innings. He has even chipped in five saves for the Reds, showing that he could handle the ninth inning role if need be.
With Cleveland, he would not only serve as an upgrade this season, but a piece for the future. At 33 years old, Hughes likely has several solid seasons left in the tank. As the Indians bullpen will be in a state of flux come this offseason, Hughes would give them a solid reliever to build around.
Jared Hughes could serve as a key part of the Indians bullpen this season, and going forward. He may not be the biggest name in the Reds bullpen, but he could have the best return on investment for Cleveland.