Indians-Tyler Naquin agree on one-year deal

The Cleveland Indians and outfielder Tyler Naquin have avoided arbitration. Both parties agreeing on a one-year $1.45 million deal.

The Cleveland Indians have agreed with Tyler Naquin on a one-year deal. A contract worth $1.45 million for the 2020 season. Naquin still is arbitration eligible for two more years.

Tyler Naquin was in the middle of a bounce back year of sorts in 2019 before an ACL tear ended his season. Naquin appeared in 89 games last season, slashing .288/.325/.467 with an OPS of .792. Naquin also had 19 doubles, 10 home runs and drove in and scored 34 runs. These were the best numbers from Naquin since his rookie season in 2019. Naquin could have surpassed his home run, RBI, and stolen base totals from that season if not for his injury.

Just how much Tyler Naquin plays in 2020 is the question. As mentioned above, Naquin tore his ACL in 2019. That is going to take some time to get back to 100%. There is also the fact that there are other outfielders on the roster fighting for roster spots. Greg Allen, Delino DeShields, Jake Bauers, Bradley Zimmer, and Daniel Johnson are up for outfield spots. Once Naquin does return and is ready to go, he will have to fight for playing time.

Can the Cleveland Indians depend on Naquin to contribute this season? Well that’s the million dollar question. $1.45 million to be exact. There is definitely an opportunity for Naquin with the roster construction. It is all about his recovery timeline and whether he is able to avoid a letdown season such as his 2017 and 2018 campaigns.