The Indians sign Bruce Chen
D.J. Short, NBCSports
Feb 16, 2015, 10:56 PM EST
The Indians have secured some additional rotation depth, as CBS Sports’ Jon Heyman reports that the club has added veteran left-hander Bruce Chen on a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training. He would have a $1 million base salary if he makes the big club and could make $1 million more with incentives.
Chen has pitched for 10 teams in the majors, but he has spent the last six seasons with the Royals. The 37-year-old dealt with a back injury last season while posting a 7.45 ERA over seven starts and six relief appearances. He was designated for assignment in late August and ultimately given his release in September.
With Corey Kluber, Carlos Carrasco, Trevor Bauer, Gavin Floyd, Danny Salazar, T.J. House, Josh Tomlin, and Zach McAllister, the Indians already have more starters than available rotation spots, so Chen will mostly function as insurance.