Indians trim veterans off roster

The Cleveland Indians informed veterans Matt Joyce, Justin Grimm, Alex Wilson and Ryan Flaherty that they will not make the big league club.

These moves hardly come as a surprise. Matt Joyce, Justin Grimm, Alex Wilson and Ryan Flaherty are not making the Major League roster. Matt Joyce is already with a new team. After his realease Joyce subsequently signed a contract with the San Francisco Giants. Grimm, Wilson and Flaherty were informed Wednesday of their status.

If Cleveland could somehow manage to keep them in the system that would be beneficial to all involved. It is incredibly likely that they could all see time with the Indians this season due to an injury or a personal reason. It happens every season and it would be better if the team is prepared with quality veterans rather than inexperienced minor leaguers.

Alex Wilson and Justin Grimm have both pitched well this spring. Considering that Tyler Clippard suffered an injury and is signing a minor league deal, their absence is a bit surprising. Cleveland’s bullpen is a work in progress and will continue to see changes this season. It is entirely possible that one, if not both see time with the Tribe this season.

Ryan Flaherty had a shot to be a utility man for the Indians. Flaherty had an alright spring, slashing .243/.333/.459/.793 in 17 games. There are much worse slash lines from players who will be on the big league roster this season. Although an injury to second baseman Jason Kipnis could re-open a door for Flaherty if the injury requires extended rest.

The report is only for precautionary reasons, but as Indians fans have seen before a calf injury can linger on for a long time.

The Indians roster is not exactly final as of yet, but with Opening Day fast approaching, a much clearer picture should present itself in the coming days.