Indians Focus on a Closer for 2009 and Beyond

By Bill Jordan
Updated: November 17, 2008

After experiencing a closer by committee position last season, the Indians seem to be attempting to solidify that spot on their team with a former All Star during the off season.

The Indians have surprisingly become one of the teams that are vying for some of the major free agent closers in the game and claim to have an upper hand on that position because they are willing to offer a multi-year contract.

They are most notably seriously in the discussion for Trevor Hoffman, the former San Diego Padre reliever who holds the record for most all time saves.

The Indians confirmed they have already spoken with Hoffman’s agent, Rick Thurman and are working on their specific offer to the closer.

It is most likely that no one will offer Hoffman more than a two year deal because of his age, and this makes the Indians believe they have a real shot at signing him.

Other closers in the free agent market include Francisco Rodriguez, Brian Fuentes and Kerry Wood, who all are seeking multi-year contracts of at least three years.

Realistically, the Tribe may be able to cater to Fuentes or Wood, but probably do not have any shot at K-Rod, especially after his record breaking season.