Indians, Tomlin agree on 2-year deal Club also has an option on veteran right-hander for Josh Tomlin Mike Pelfrey Corey Kluber

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1 Indians, Tomlin agree on 2-year deal Club also has an option on veteran right-hander for 2018 By Jordan Bastian / January 26th, 2016 CLEVELAND -- Josh Tomlin was quietly one of the best pitchers in the American League over the final two months last season. Now, the Indians have taken a step to make sure the organization's longest-tenured player will stick around a little longer. On Tuesday, Cleveland announced that it had signed Tomlin to a two-year contract that includes a team option for the 2018 season. The $2.25 million contract the starter previously signed for the upcoming season to avoid arbitration is part of the structure for the multiyear extension. The new deal covers at least the first year of free-agent eligibility for Tomlin. "Josh is a really great story in a lot ways," Indians general manager Mike Chernoff said. "He's a homegrown player that we drafted in 2006, a later-round Draft pick who, with his grit and determination, really worked his way through the Minor Leagues. And it's a great success story for a lot of reasons.... His competitiveness, his toughness, the type of teammate that he is, have really made a huge impact on our Major League team both on the field and in the clubhouse." The two-year pact is worth $5.5 million in guaranteed salary, but it has the potential to increase to $11.75 million over the life of the contract. Tomlin will earn $2.5 million in 2017, with another $2 million available in incentives. The team option for '18 is worth $3 million, plus $2 million in incentives, but that year can be bought out by Cleveland for $750,000. That is a very affordable contract from Cleveland's perspective, considering the type of free-agent deals that have been handed out this offseason. Consider that righty Mike Pelfrey received a two-year, $16 million contract from Detroit after going 6-14 with a 4.73 ERA in 188 1/3 innings over the past two years. Tomlin's pact is roughly one-third in terms of guaranteed salary, even though he has gone with a 4.08 ERA in 169 2/3 innings over the past two years combined. Tomlin, who is one year younger than Pelfrey, said he gave very little thought about the potential of free agency when Cleveland came to him with the multiyear concept. "I didn't really look towards the free-agent part. I've been a Cleveland Indian since 2006," Tomlin said. "When they approached my agent about that contract, it was something that excited me and it got me looking forward to the season and I appreciated it. It's something we talked about and we were able to reach an agreement that I was happy with, that they were happy with. "I wasn't really looking toward the future and seeing, 'OK, these guys are getting this much money. I could potentially have that kind of money.' That never entered into my head. It was, 'Cleveland Indians wanted to give me a shot and I'm all about it.'" Asked if Tomlin heads into Spring Training as the leading candidate for a spot in the Indians' rotation, Chernoff said, "That's the plan." The GM was quick to note that the righty has experience as a reliever, but noted that Tomlin "is going to play a meaningful role" on the team. As things currently stand, Tomlin would be alongside Corey Kluber, Carlos Carrasco,Danny Salazar and Trevor Bauer. Right-hander Cody Anderson will also be in the mix for a job after a solid showing as a rookie last summer. Last season, the 31-year-old Tomlin returned in the second half after undergoing right shoulder surgery in April, and he gave the Tribe a reliable arm down the stretch. In 10 starts, Tomlin went 7-2 with a 3.02 ERA, striking out 57 and walking eight in 65 2/3 innings. From Aug. 15 through the rest of the season -- the period in which Tomlin returned to the Majors -- the righty ranked near or at the top of the American League in multiple categories. During that stretch, Tomlin ranked first among qualified AL starters in WHIP (0.84), walks per nine innings (1.1), strikeout-to-walk ratio (7.13), baserunners per nine innings (7.81) and opponents' on-base percentage (.227). He ranked second in opponents' average (.195), third in innings, sixth in opponents' OPS (.642) and eighth in ERA. Tomlin also tied Texas lefty Cole Hamels and former Toronto lefty David Price (now with the Red Sox) for the AL lead with seven wins during that time period. "It was very rewarding," Tomlin said of his showing last season. "It was more rewarding when we were coming down the stretch and had a chance [at the postseason]. That was stuff that everybody dreams about pitching in. It was fun to go out there and try to help us win games.... Everybody up there was pitching great. I didn't want to come up there and not carry my own weight, so it was very rewarding to do that for them." Among all Major League starters with at least 60 innings pitched last season, Tomlin's 0.84 WHIP was tied for first with former Dodgers starter Zack Greinke (now with the D-backs). That also marked the lowest WHIP in a single season in Indians history among starters with at least 60 innings. Over the course of his career, Tomlin has gone with a 4.65 ERA in 95 games (80 starts) in parts of six seasons for Cleveland, which selected him in the 19th round of the 2006 Draft. Tomlin enjoyed his best season in 2011, when he won 12 games and had a 4.25 ERA in 26 starts, but the pitcher needed Tommy John surgery on his right elbow in '12, and he dealt with the shoulder issue early last year. "He is one of the toughest guys on the team. He's been through a lot," Chernoff said. "It was a great story, really, to see him return from that and pitch as well as he did. I think he made about 10 starts at the end of the year and really proved his success as a Major League starter. Him coming back to contribute at the end of the year was a huge positive, for a lot of different reasons -- I think for his own mindset as we head into next year, for planning and in showing what he can do for us." Pitching prospect Plutko one of Tribe's NRIs By Jordan Bastian / January 26th, 2016 CLEVELAND -- During the Indians' fall development program at the end of last season, pitching prospect Adam Plutko had to look no farther than the mound at Progressive Field to see just how quickly a player can reach the big leagues. Cody Anderson -- a teammate of Plutko's briefly at Double-A Akron in May last season -- was pitching for the Indians during Plutko's September trip to Cleveland. Plutko, who was among the four internal non-roster invitees announced by the Tribe on Tuesday, can only hope to follow a similar Major League trajectory. "Cody was really quick," Plutko said in September in Cleveland. "Cody did it this year -- everything you want to do as far as getting ahead of guys, putting guys away, striking guys out, not walking guys. "

2 The Indians will get a close look at Plutko, one of the team's 17 non-roster invitees, this spring in big league camp. Also joining the fold from Cleveland's system on Tuesday were infielder Todd Hankins, right-hander Will Roberts and shortstop Eric Stamets. Plutko -- ranked by MLB.com as the Indians' No. 14 prospect -- enjoyed a strong showing in In his second professional season, the 24- year-old righty went 13-7 with a 2.39 ERA, which was the lowest ERA in the organization in '15. Plutko struck out 137, walked 28 and posted a 0.93 WHIP in 166 innings overall between Class A Advanced Lynchburg and Akron. In 19 starts with Akron, Plutko turned in a 2.86 ERA and led Double-A with a 1.02 WHIP. "I tried to be really consistent in my routines," Plutko said. "That's something you always hear about. Corey Kluber, Josh Tomlin, all those guys that are here and pitching in the big leagues -- that's something that all our coaches tell us, is they do a better job than everybody else around them. I try to get really in-depth with my routines and not try to change them too much, just try to do the same thing as much as I can." Plutko, who was named the College World Series' Most Outstanding Player in 2013 after helping lead UCLA to the championship, has gone with a 3.16 ERA in 315 2/3 innings in the Indians' organization. Hankins, 25, hit.261 with six home runs, 31 extra-base hits, 36 RBIs, 31 walks, 56 runs and 21 stolen bases in 109 games at Double-A Akron last year. In 16 games with Scottsdale in the Arizona Fall League, he hit.246 with a.408 on-base percentage. Hankins spent the bulk of his time at second base last year, but he also logged innings at shortstop and all three outfield spots. He manned center field in 12 games in the AFL. The 25-year-old Roberts went 9-6 with a 3.45 ERA in 26 starts between Akron and Triple-A Columbus last season. In 156 2/3 innings total, the right-hander struck out 84 and walked only 23. Roberts made a dozen starts for Columbus, posting a 3.06 ERA to go along with a 1.15 WHIP in 70 2/3 innings. Stamets was acquired from the Angels prior to the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline last summer in exchange for outfielder David Murphy. The 24-year-old shortstop hit.230 in 95 games between Double-A Arkansas (Los Angeles) and Akron (Cleveland), but he dealt with a left shoulder issue in early April. Known best for his defensive ability, Stamets made no errors in 33 games (141 chances) after joining Akron. Inbox: When and where will Brantley return? By Jordan Bastian / January 25th, 2016 Do you think that Michael Brantley's season this year could be like Yan Gomes last year coming off injury or Jason Kipnis in 2014? -- Jonathan C., Allentown, Pa. One major difference between Brantley's situation and the injuries that Gomes and Kipnis encountered is the fact that Brantley has had the benefit of an offseason to recover. Last year, Gomes sustained a knee injury in April and the catcher then dealt with offensive issues after his return. Similarly, Kipnis tweaked an oblique in April 2014 and wasn't the same after his return. Brantley underwent surgery on his right (non-throwing) shoulder in November and has been able to use this winter to get a jump on his rehab and comeback, without facing the pressure of the team playing games at the same time. With in-season injuries such as the ones faced by Gomes and Kipnis, a team runs the risk that a player might try to return before being completely recovered. Now, Brantley's injury is expected to linger into April and possibly May, so the left fielder will run into that in-season pressure eventually. At least, though, he will have been able to go through an offseason and Spring Training ahead of time. The hope would be that the progress made in that time period can help Brantley return sooner rather than later. That said, Cleveland will play this conservatively. Gomes hit.278 (.785 OPS) in '14 and won an American League Silver Slugger Award, only to hit.231 (.659 OPS) while coming back from the knee issue in '15. Kipnis was an All-Star again last year, but he hit.240 (.640 OPS) in '14 mainly due to the health woes. Brantley is the Tribe's best all-around offensive weapon, and the team needs to make sure he is at full strength when he is activated. How long do you think Brantley will be out? -- Haylee S., Akron, Ohio The Indians said from the start that Brantley might be able to return some time in April or May, and the team has not changed its stance. It will be easier to gauge his progress come Spring Training. One thing is certain: If Brantley needs until June to feel like he's back to 100 percent, the Indians will give him that much time. They aren't going to rush him back and risk setbacks. I'd say that not trading one of its top starters was Cleveland's best decision this winter. With a league-average offense (and that's with Brantley in the heart of the order), the Indians will need to get everything it can out of its pitching staff. That starts with the rotation, which is led by Corey Kluber, Carlos Carrasco, Danny Salazar and Trevor Bauer. Keeping that foursome intact gives the Indians their best shot at contending, given the makeup of the rest of the roster. Who do you think will hit in the cleanup spot in the order this year? Do you thinkcarlos Santana will be moved down in the lineup? -- Tommy, Akron, Ohio It's hard to say right now, as a handful of lineup slots are up for debate. For instance, Kipnis thrived as the leadoff hitter last year, but I could see him being bumped to the No. 3 hole with Brantley out. Francisco Lindor was strong as the No. 2 hitter, but might he move to the top spot? Rajai Davis could hit first, too. In the middle, newly acquired Mike Napoli might see time as the cleanup man to take some pressure off Santana, who could easily slide to the fifth spot. Manager Terry Francona will have all spring to toy around with these scenarios. Do you see the Tribe adding another right-handed bat to maybe play right field? Do we trust Lonnie Chisenhall playing right every day? -- Mike Y., Youngstown, Ohio Chisenhall projects to get the bulk of the at-bats in right, considering he hits right-handed pitching best. Francona has also done well in picking spots for Chisenhall to get limited at-bats against lefties. The Indians acquired Collin Cowgill to potentially partner with Chisenhall in right, though Cowgill can also play center and left. Cowgill is best when limited to facing mostly left-handed pitching. Davis had relatively even splits last year, but has also handled lefties better than right-handers over his career. Will the Indians pursue another outfield option like Dexter Fowler? Or will payroll not allow it? -- Dave L., Cleveland

3 With the addition of Davis, and Brantley due to come back, I'd be surprised if the Indians added another starting outfielder. Fowler is interesting, but he also would cost Cleveland its top pick in the First-Year Player Draft. Besides the asking price, which is likely too steep for the Tribe's situation, the Indians do not have a protected first-round pick. If Brantley were going to miss the whole season, maybe Cleveland would be more willing to take that kind of gamble. This looks like an either/or situation with Davis. Both hit right-handed, perform better against lefty pitching and can handle center field. Davis, however, has been above league average for the past two years (101 weighted Runs Created plus in '15, and 103 wrc+ in '14), while Jackson has been below league average (94 in '15 and 86 in '14). Cleveland also needed a player willing to possibly lose some at-bats upon Brantley's return. For a one-year solution, Davis might've just been a better fit in the Tribe's eyes. You're obviously referencing Cody Anderson, who was the AL's Pitcher of the Month in September. As of right now, it's not a lock that Anderson is ticketed for Triple-A Columbus. He and Josh Tomlin will head into Spring Training as the top candidates for the fifth rotation spot. If Cleveland feels at the end that Anderson is its best option, he'll get the job. I could see a scenario where Tomlin heads to the bullpen. Of course, if Anderson does head to Triple-A, well, that just speaks to Cleveland's rotation depth, doesn't it? Bradley cracks MLB Pipeline's Top 10 1B Prospects list By Jim Callis / January 24th, A.J. Reed, Astros Reed had a spectacular first full season as a pro, leading the Minors in runs (113), homers (34), RBIs (127), total bases (320), slugging (.612) and OPS (1.044) while winning the Class A Advanced California League MVP Award and continuing to mash following a promotion to Double- A. With his penchant for making consistent hard contact and waiting out pitchers reluctant to challenge him, Reed could claim Houston's firstbase job as soon as he proves he can hit advanced left-handers. 2. Josh Bell, Pirates Pittsburgh stunned the industry when it landed the believed-to-be-unsignable Bell with a second-round-record $5 million bonus in The best pure hitter on this list, he's a switch-hitter who controls the strike zone and is still growing into what could be considerable power. Bell could take over first base for the Pirates once he gets a little more time in Triple-A. 3. Dominic Smith, Mets After posting just one homer and a.683 OPS in his first full pro season, Smith rebounded last year to hit.305/.354/.417, topping the Florida State League with 33 doubles and 79 RBIs and earning the Class A Advanced circuit's MVP Award. With his excellent hand-eye coordination and mature approach, he barrels balls repeatedly and shows promising power during batting practice. 4. Bobby Bradley, Indians He won the Rookie-level Arizona League Triple Crown in his 2014 pro debut and encored by easily leading the Class A Midwest League with 27 homers, the most by any MWL teenager since Miguel Sano stroked 28 in Bradley has prodigious power but will have to show he can make consistent contact after topping the MWL with 148 strikeouts and fanning in nearly 32 percent of his plate appearances. Indians add more local flavor to concessions By Jordan Bastian / 11:30 AM ET CLEVELAND -- The Indians created a popular destination point with Progressive Field last year, when the team transformed its concourse in center field and right field. The Right Field District brought a little bit of Cleveland inside the stadium's walls through a variety of local restaurant offerings. As part of the second phase of its ongoing ballpark renovations, the Tribe is taking things a step further. Continuing with the neighborhoodthemed concession stops introduced last year, the club announced Wednesday that three more local restaurants have agreed to join the fold for the 2016 season. The Indians and Delaware North -- the team's concessionaire -- revealed that Happy Dog, Ohio City Burrito and Cleveland Pickle will join the growing list of local favorites to set up shop inside Progressive Field. The new additions will be available in the new Infield District, which will be a part of renovations that are taking place in the main concourse. "The first phase significantly improved the Right Field District," said Curtis Danburg, the Indians' senior director of communications. "And now we're moving on to the Infield and Left Field Districts, as well showcasing a brand-new scoreboard and sound system, all funded by Gateway and Cuyahoga County. A major reason for the success last year in our renovations was clearly enhancing the ballpark food experience by partnering with popular local restaurants." Last year, the Indians created a new Gate C entrance in center field, built The Corner rooftop bar, improved the Kids Clubhouse and created the Right Field District. In the latter section, local restaurants Melt, Barrio, Sweet Moses, Great Lakes Brewing Company and Dynomite Burger offered food stands. The current renovation project includes a new club for select season-ticket holders located behind home plate, improved sightlines from the main concourse, a new scoreboard and upgraded concessions offerings. Many of the Indians' other popular concessions will still be available as well. Happy Dog -- located at West 58th and Detroit Ave. in Cleveland's Gordon Square neighborhood -- offers unique hot dogs, veggie dogs, french fries and tater tots. An extensive list of toppings, which are all made in-house, are also available. Ohio City Burrito, which opened in 2009 in Cleveland's Ohio City area, offers a burrito bar and a variety of tacos, salads, nachos and more. The restaurant also has homemade guacamole and original salsas made daily. Cleveland Pickle, which opened in 2012 and is located in the heart of downtown at Euclid and East Ninth St., offers unique sandwiches with Cleveland names. The shop also features salads, soups and pickles. Indians add three area restaurants to stadium food options for 2016 season CLEVELAND: The Indians will be adding three area restaurants as food options within Progressive Field for the 2016 season, the team announced on Wednesday.

4 Happy Dog, Ohio City Burrito and Cleveland Pickle, all Cleveland-based eateries, will be serving food in the newly renovated Infield District. These three restaurants will join the group of five that were inserted into the Right Field District prior to last season, including Melt, Barrio, Sweet Moses, Great Lakes Brewing Co. and Dynomite Burger. Those local additions continue the club s long-standing commitment to partner with local food service providers and producers, said Curtis Danburg, Indians senior director of communications. We re very excited to bring all three restaurants [to Progressive Field]. The Indians also expect additional local restaurants to partner with the team prior to Opening Day on April 4. As for the other parts of the Indians second phase of renovations, the team is confident that all construction will be done on time for Opening Day. Among the enhancements is a new, state-of-the-art scoreboard, updated banner video boards, a new sound system, a new club located behind home plate that will be available to season-ticket holders (in the Diamond Box and Field Box Front sections) and the opening of the main concourse to allow better views of the field while fans are away from their seats. The Indians also expect additional local restaurants to partner with the team prior to Opening Day on April 4. As for the other parts of the Indians second phase of renovations, the team is confident that all construction will be done on time for Opening Day. Among the enhancements is a new, state-of-the-art scoreboard, updated banner video boards, a new sound system, a new club located behind home plate that will be available to season ticket holders (in the Diamond Box and Field Box Front sections) and the opening of the main concourse to allow better views of the field while fans are away from their seats. Cleveland Indians invite Adam Plutko, Eric Stamets, Will Roberts, Todd Hankins to spring training Paul Hoynes CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Indians have invited four minor leaguers to big league spring training and none of them are named Bradley Zimmer or Clint Frazier. Shortstop Eric Stamets, infielder Todd Hankins and right-handers Adam Plutko and Will Roberts received invitations to camp. Stamets, 24, was acquired last season from the Angels for outfielder David Murphy. He hit a combined.230 (76-for-331) in the minors with 14 doubles, four homers and 35 RBI in 95 games. At Class AA Akron, Stamets did not make an error in his 33 games, covering 141 chances. Hankins, 25, hit.261 (116-for-445) with 20 doubles, six homers and 36 RBI in 109 games at Akron. He stole 21 bases, while playing mostly second base. Hankins also played all three outfield positions. In the Arizona Fall League, he played all three outfield positions. Hankins hit.246 (14-for-57) with one homer and five RBI in the AFL. After last season Matt Quatraro, Indians assistant hitting coach, got his first up close and personal look at prospect Clint Frazier as manager of the Scottsdale Scorpions of the Arizona Fall League. He came away impressed. Plutko, 24, pitched himself into the big-league mix with a strong 2015 at Class A Lynchburg and Akron. He was a combined 13-7 with a 2.39 ERA in 27 starts. He finished first in ERA, second in wins and innings pitched (166) and third in strikeouts (137) among all Tribe minor league pitchers. After being promoted to Akron, Plutko went 9-5 with a 2.86 ERA in 19 starts. The Indians selected Plutko in the 11th round in 2013 out of UCLA. Roberts, 25, was a combined 9-6 with a 3.45 ERA in 26 starts at Akron and Class AAA Columbus. He struck out 84 and walked 23 in 156 2/3 innings. After spending most of the season at Akron, Roberts went 1-0 with a 0.47 ERA in three starts at Columbus. Then he went 1-0 with a 3.00 ERA in two postseason starts for the Clippers. Roberts was the Tribe's fifth round pick in 2011 out of the University of Virginia. Zimmer and Bradley, both outfielders, are considered the Tribe's top two prospects. It's not out of the question that they could still get invited with Zimmer probaby more likely than Frazier. But this could also be the organization's attempt to manage expectations on the former No.1 picks. The Indians and No.1 pick Bradley Zimmer have come to terms on a signing bonus. The Indians have invited 17 players to camp: Pitchers: Joba Chamberlain, Joe Colon, Ross Detwiler, Tom Gorzelanny, Jarret Grube, Felipe Paulino, Plutko, Roberts and Joe Thatcher. Catchers: Adam Moore and Anthony Recker. Infielders: Michael Martinez, Stamets and Hankins. Outfielders: Robbie Grossman, Shane Robinson and Michael Choice. Indians pitchers and catchers report to spring training in Goodyear, Ariz. on Feb. 17. Cleveland Plain Dealer LOADED:

5 Indians sign pitcher Josh Tomlin to two-year contract extension Ryan Lewis The Indians on Tuesday agreed to terms with starting pitcher Josh Tomlin on a two-year contract extension. The deal also includes a club option for the 2018 season. Tomlin, 31, was already the likely front runner for the No. 5 spot in the rotation ahead of lead challenger Cody Anderson. This extension furthers his cause. I think that s the plan, Indians General Manager Mike Chernoff said when asked if he envisioned Tomlin being in the Opening Day rotation. He s obviously pitched out of the bullpen before, so he is going to play a meaningful role on the team and he ll have every opportunity to be in the starting rotation. Tomlin will make $2.25 million in 2016, $2.5 million in 2017 and $3 million in 2018 if the Indians pick up his option, according to reports. The deal includes $2 million in incentives in 2017 and 2018 and a $750,000 buyout if the option year isn t exercised. Tomlin missed most of last season after he needed shoulder surgery in March. Once healthy in mid-august, he joined the rotation and responded nicely, posting a 7-2 record with a 3.02 ERA, 57 strikeouts and only eight walks in 10 starts. Staying healthy has been Tomlin s biggest hurdle to finding a steady spot in the Indians rotation. He needed Tommy John surgery in 2012 and was just starting to make progress in Last spring he started to feel discomfort in his throwing shoulder while competing for a spot in the rotation, warranting a second major surgery. The Indians sticking by him through his rehab led Tomlin to not think much about the money he could have made on the open market after this season. When they approached my agent about that contract, it was something that excited me and got me looking forward to this season, Tomlin said. I wasn t really looking towards the future saying, OK, these guys are getting this much money. I could potentially have that kind of money. It never entered my head. It was, The Cleveland Indians wanted to give me a shot and I m all about it. This signing also furthers the Indians case that they have one of the most controllable, affordable and talented starting rotations in baseball. Corey Kluber and Carlos Carrasco are signed long term to team-friendly and market-friendly contracts. Danny Salazar, Trevor Bauer and Anderson are all under team control through at least the 2020 season. Now Tomlin is signed through at least next season at an affordable price comparable to other deals handed out to pitchers this winter. Most important, the Indians didn t have to wade into unfriendly waters and compete with other teams as pitchers price tags have continued to rise. A contract like this is a mutual decision, and it s a way for, hopefully, us to provide Josh with an alternative that allows him to stay in one place, Chernoff said. And, on his end, he s provided us with some certainty moving forward and the ability hopefully, given what his production is, the type of guy he is, the type of teammate he is the ability to have somebody potentially on our staff that can make that type of impact without having to go on the free-agent market and compete for that talent. Akron Beacon Journal LOADED: Cleveland Indians' outfield too crowded for prospects Bradley Zimmer, Clint Frazier Paul Hoynes CLEVELAND, Ohio Just because No. 1 picks Bradley Zimmer and Clint Frazier weren't invited to spring training with the Indians big league players, doesn't mean they won't get a chance to show manager Terry Francona and his coaching staff what they can do. "You've seen that Tito uses young players all the time in (Cactus League) games so I expect we'll see those guys a lot in spring training," said GM Mike Chernoff. "We've seen them in the past and they'll have their chances." The Indians invited four of their minor league players to big league camp Tuesday infielders Todd Hankins and Eric Stamets and righthanders Adam Plutko and Will Roberts. Zimmer and Frazier, both outfielders, were conspicuous by their absence. Chernoff said it was simply a case of having too many outfielders in camp. At the moment, the Indians have 12 outfielders headed to spring training. Shane Robinson, Robbie Grossman and Michael Choice are spring-training invitees. Abraham Almonte, Michael Brantley, Joey Butler, Lonnie Chisenhall, Collin Cowgill, Rajai Davis, Tyler Naquin, James Ramsey and Zach Walters are on the 40-man roster. Utility men Michael Martinez and Jose Ramirez and first baseman Mike Napoli played some outfield as well last year. It's no secret that the Tribe's outfield is unsettled. Brantley and Walters are recovering from shoulder surgery. Brantley is expected to miss the first month of the season. It means Francona and the front office have a lot of players to evaluate. "You always strike this balance that when you have guys in camp you make sure there is enough opportunity for them,'' said Chernoff. "Those are two guys (Zimmer and Frazier) who are not looking like they're going to make the major league team out of spring training. It's less important to have them as part of that unit in camp." Zimmer, recovering from a broken bone in his right foot, hit a combined.273 (129-for-473) with 26 doubles, 16 homers and 63 RBI at Class A Lynchburg and Class AA Akron last season. The Tribe's No.1 pick in 2014 scored 84 runs and stole 44 bases. Frazier, the team's No.1 pick in 2013, spent last year at Lynchburg where he hit.285 (143-for-501) with 36 doubles, 16 homers and 72 RBI in 133 games. He played 133 games, scored 88 runs and stole 15 bases. Zimmer bats left-handed and Frazier right-handed. They both play center field. "Both of those guys had really great years last year,'' said Chernoff. "They made a ton of progress in a lot of different ways, fundamentally and mentally. They've both still very young players.

6 It has nothing to do with the seasons they had, who they are and the progress they made. The decision not to bring them to camp is about the depth we have in our major league clubhouse and on our roster in the outfield.'' Zimmer and Frazier could open this season at Akron. Cleveland Plain Dealer LOADED: GM Mike Chernoff: Cleveland Indians plan to have Josh Tomlin in the starting rotation Zack Meisel CLEVELAND, Ohio -- If Josh Tomlin is already penciled in as a member of the Indians' rotation, he doesn't want to know. "I don't think I'm going to change my mindset," Tomlin said Tuesday, the day he and the Indians finalized a two-year contract extension. "I don't want to." The Indians locked up Tomlin through the 2017 season on a deal worth $5.5 million. The club presented the idea of an extension when the two sides negotiated a pact to avoid arbitration nearly two weeks ago. Tomlin will earn $2.25 million in 2016, $2.5 million in 2017 and the Indians hold a $3 million option -- or a $750,000 buyout -- on the righthander for the 2018 campaign, a source told cleveland.com. Performance bonuses tied to games started and innings pitched could pack another $4 million in Tomlin's pocket over the life of the contract. So, is the money guarantee a reflection of Tomlin's place on the pitching totem pole? When asked Tuesday if Tomlin would be part of the rotation, general manager Mike Chernoff said, "I think that's the plan." He then quickly added that Tomlin has bullpen experience. "He is going to play a meaningful role on the team and he'll have every opportunity to be in the starting rotation," Chernoff said. That doesn't mean a whole lot to Tomlin at this point. "For me, it's still going out there and competing for a job. I've said that every spring training, because it's the truth. I don't think I want to change that mindset. I think that mindset has helped me out over the years and I like keeping that competitive balance, that competitive edge, and trying to go out there and work for it. "If you lose that, you lose that edge a little bit. I'm not thinking anything is going to be given to me and I hope it's not. My job is to go out there and win a spot." The Indians and the right-handed pitcher have agreed to a two-year contract extension. The club also holds an option on the pitcher for the 2018 season. Either way, the Indians figure to have six starting pitchers battling for five spots. If Tomlin earns his way into the rotation, that could leave Cody Anderson as the odd man out. Anderson posted a 7-3 record and 3.05 ERA in 15 starts during his rookie season. He was named the American League Pitcher of the Month in September, when he limited the opposition to six runs on 29 hits over 39 innings, going 5-0 with a 1.38 ERA. "Look, there are going to be guys that have to go back to Triple-A that maybe don't need to or maybe aren't going to be so happy about that," Chernoff said. "But, organizationally, that's a good thing, and I think we know how important that is and that those guys are going to make an impact at some point." Tomlin returned from spring shoulder surgery and compiled a 7-2 record and 3.02 ERA in 10 big-league starts. He tossed a pair of complete games in September. Overall, he held the opposition to 47 hits (.195 average) and eight walks across 65 2/3 innings. Tomlin underwent Tommy John surgery in 2012, which limited him to one major league appearance the following year. "He is one of the toughest guys on the team," Chernoff said. "He's been through a lot." Tomlin could have become a free agent at the end of The free-agent market has treated starting pitchers like royalty. Top-of-the-line hurlers have inked nine-figure contracts. Run-of-the-mill starters have landed salaries in the range of $8-12 million per year. That didn't prevent Tomlin from extending his window with the Indians for an extra year or two. "I didn't really look toward the free agent part," he said. "I've been a Cleveland Indian since They drafted me, and when they approached my agent about that contract, it was something that excited me and it got me looking forward to the season and I appreciated it. It's something we talked about and we were able to reach an agreement that I was happy with, that they were happy with. "I wasn't really looking toward the future and saying, 'OK, these guys are getting this much money. I could potentially have that kind of money.' That never entered into my head. It was, the Cleveland Indians wanted to give me a shot and I'm all about it. I don't really know what my value is worth anyway. For me, it was a good contract for me and something I've never received before in my life, so it was something I jumped at the chance to get." It has its benefits for the Indians, too. Corey Kluber, Carlos Carrasco, Danny Salazar, Trevor Bauer and Anderson are all under team control for the foreseeable future. The club can add Tomlin to the list. "It's an important thing," Chernoff said. "You've seen our strategy in trying to find ways to build a team from within, and to create some of that certainty moving forward. So, a contract like this is a mutual decision, and it's a way for, hopefully, us to provide Josh with an alternative that allows him to stay in one place. "And, on his end, he's provided us with some certainty moving forward and the ability -- hopefully, given what his production is, the type of guy he is, the type of teammate that he is -- the ability to have somebody potentially on our staff that can make that type of impact without having to go on the free-agent market and compete for that talent." Cleveland Plain Dealer LOADED: Happy Dog, Ohio City Burrito, Cleveland Pickle added to Progressive Field options (photos) Print Marc Bona, cleveland.com By Marc Bona, cleveland.com

7 CLEVELAND, Ohio The Cleveland Indians announced a trio of new food offerings in Progressive Field for this season: Happy Dog, Ohio City Burrito and Cleveland Pickle. The additional food stands are part of Phase II of the stadium renovations. Last year's initial refurbishment in the Right Field District included bringing in Great Lakes Brewing Co. and Dynomite Burger, as well as Melt, Barrio and Sweet Moses. The second phase focuses on the left-field area: Happy Dog Section 159: Three to four hot dogs will be offered, including a vegetarian option and the breakfast dog, which includes a fried egg, bacon and Froot Loops, Happy Dog owner Sean Watterson said. He added the restaurant might let its patrons weigh in on what else could be offered in the stadium. Watterson said he's a big baseball fan and took the Rapid countless times to the old Cleveland Stadium. "We'd hit a ton of games, or watch at Parkview before Happy Dog," he said, referring to his late business partner, Sean Kilbane. A bonus for Happy Dog customers: Watterson said his stand will be near Great Lakes, Fat Head's and Brew Kettle beers. Cleveland Pickle Section 158: The cozy sandwich shop nestled along Euclid Avenue will have three of its signature sandwiches in Progressive Field: The Clevelander (smoked turkey, ham, Sopressata), the West-Sider (smoked turkey, pancetta) and the Classic Pickle (Capicola, Sopressata, Prosciutto). Instead of pickle chunks, the restaurant's stadium offerings will include whole dill pickles. Owner Josh Kabat said he is a huge baseball fan: "Win or lose, I'm the guy who loves coming to the games for a beer and a hot dog." Cleveland Pickle is a hot-sandwich option in the heart of downtown Cleveland and Lakewood. Ohio City Burrito Section 160: The restaurant, located on West 25th Street in Cleveland's Ohio City neighborhood, will offer its Brothers Burrito amid several offerings that include a bowl-style naked burrito and tacos. "If things go well," owner Mikki Pizzuli said, "we might create a concept (burrito) for the Tribe." The Indians' home opener is 4:10 p.m. Monday, April 4, against Boston. Who will be in opening day outfield for Cleveland Indians? Hey, Hoynsie Print Paul Hoynes, cleveland.com By Paul Hoynes, cleveland.com CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Do you have a question that you'd like to have answered in Hey, Hoynsie? Submit it here or Tweet him Hey, Brent: The Indians will almost certainly be facing Boston left-hander David Price in the opener on April 4 at Progressive Field. It means there are a lot of ways manager Terry Francona could go. How about Shane Robinson in left field, Rajai Davis in center and Lonnie Chisenhall in right field? Chisenhall is hitting.364 (4-for-11) with one homer and three RBI against Price. Or how about Carlos Santana in left, Davis or Abraham Almonte in center and Collin Cowgill or Joey Butler in right? If Santana isn't in left, he could be at first with Mike Napoli starting in left field. Remember, it's still January and a lot can change between now opening day. Hey, Godless Saber Pigs: I think a lot of fans have accepted sabermetrics. But in reality, it doesn't matter how they feel about it. Sabermetrics and analytics of all kinds have become part of the decision-making process with all 30 teams in the big leagues when it comes to evaluating talent. Hey, Josh: Teams have handed out a lot of opt out clauses in multiyear contracts this winter. It's a way for them to sign free agents who are drawing a lot of interest on the open market, but after using it to secure the player all the advantage of the opt out goes to said player. It can give him another bite of the free agency apple if he performs well and feels he's out-earned his current contract. if the player is injured or playing poorly, he can ignore the opt out and continue getting paid from his current contract.

8 I can't imagine the commissioner's office is thrilled with so many opt out clauses. It causes player contracts to increase and highlights just how uneven MLB's playing field is beween the haves and the have nots. Hey, Ben: I'm not an architect and I didn't sleep at a Holiday Inn Express last night so I can't pretend to be one, but I don't think the blueprints matched the final product when the last bolt was driven into the upper deck in right field at Progressive Field. Hey, Topher: If you're going to the Valley of the Sun for a bachelor's party forget about the concessions and remember two things: always take a cab because you do not want to end up in Tent City and don't fall on a Cactus at midnight because they hurt. Hey, Ryan: What is this a pop quiz? I'm getting flash backs to seventh grade history. All right, here goes: Manager Terry Francona, Corey Kluber, Jason Kipnis, Yan Gomes, Michael Brantley, Cody Allen, Lonnie Chisenhall, Bryan Shaw, Danny Salazar, Napoli, Davis, Cody Anderson, Cowgill, Zach McAllister, Almonte, Trevor Bauer, Jeff Manship, Santana, Giovanny Urshela, Sandy Alomar, Mike Hargrove, Carlos Baerga, Ellis Burks and Jaret Wright. Tribe Fest is Saturday. Hey, Andy: Desmond has never played third and the Indians would lose their No.1 pick in June if they signed him. Hey, Jeff: I've always said two is better than one so go for it. (Editor's note: The Black Bear is a restaurant near the Indians spring training grounds in Goodyear, Ariz.). Hey, Chris: I would feel better about Bradley Zimmer contributing to the big league club this year if he had played in the Arizona Fall League after last season. A broken bone in his right foot stopped him. I think he could help the Indians this season, but he'll probably have a better chance of making an impact in Hey, Robert: To me Kansas City has always been the team to beat in the AL Central. Lately it seems like the teams that make all the moves in December and January don't do so well when the games turn real. The Tigers, to me, feel like that kind of team. There's no doubt, however, that the signing of Upton puts them in front of the Indians, who will once again be playing for the wild card in Hey, Paul: They did sign Napoli, who has has averaged 22.3 homers a year over the last eight years. In a poor season last year, Napoli still hit 18 homers in 407 at-bats. Santana led the Tribe with 19 homers in 550 at-bats last year. Like you, however, I'd still like to see the Indians add another run producer. After finishing 11th in runs and 13th in homers last season, they definitely need more help. Tribe's Mike Napoli eyes first base for 2016 season Cleveland Indians gritty pitcher Josh Tomlin signs two-year contract By Jeff Schudel, The News-Herald & The Morning Journal Josh Tomlin worked relentlessly to bounce back from shoulder surgery last March, and now the Indians have rewarded their right-handed starter with a two-year contract extension through 2017 with a club option for The deal is worth a reported $5.5 million with the chance to earn $3 million more in Tomlin, 31, returned to the starting rotation in August and finished 7-2 with a 3.02 ERA in 10 starts. He struck out 57 and walked eight in 65 2/3 innings. Opposing batters hit.195 against him. Josh is a great story in a lot of ways, Tribe General Manager Mike Chernoff said in a conference call Jan. 26 while announcing the deal. He s a home-grown player we drafted in 2006 (19th round). With his grit and determination, he really worked his way through the minor leagues. His competitiveness, toughness and type of teammate he is have made a huge impact on our major-league team and in the clubhouse and off the field. Tomlin has pitched out of the bullpen as well as started. Chernoff said he envisions Tomlin being part of the rotation that includes Corey Kluber, Carlos Carrasco, Danny Salazar and Cody Anderson. Tomlin could have cashed in big as a free agent next winter, but he said he was content with the Indians offer. He worked his way back through Tommy John surgery in 2013 and the shoulder surgery last year and said he wants to be a part of what the Indians are building. The Indians stuck with me for quite some time over the course of those injuries, Tomlin said in a conference call. It was a good contract for me and something I ve never received before in my life.

9 Tomlin appreciates Chernoff saying he will be part of the starting rotation, but the Tribe pitcher said he will still approach spring training in Goodyear, Ariz., as though he is fighting for a job. He said he has the same attitude every spring. I think that mindset has helped me out over the years, Tomlin said. I like to keep that competitive edge. I m not thinking anything is going to be given to me, and I hope it s not. My job is to win a spot wherever that s at. My job is to help the Cleveland Indians win whenever I get the ball. Tomlin s 3.02 ERA ranks seventh all-time among Indians starters with at least 10 starts and a minimum of 65 innings pitched. In other news, the Indians announced they have invited infielders Todd Hankins and Eric Stamets, plus right-handed pitchers Adam Plutko and Will Roberts, to spring training.