The Cleveland Indians could use another arm in thier bullpen and former Houston Astros reliever Will Harris could be of interest.
The Tribe bullpen is still a work in progress. Yes, they acquired Emmanuel Clase in the Corey Kluber deal, but it is still incomplete. Adding another productive relief arm could go a long way for the Indians. Former Houston Astros reliever Will Harris would be a great addition to the Cleveland pen.
Will Harris was excellent during his five seasons in Houston. Pitching 297 innings in 309 appearances, Harris compiled a 2.36 ERA with a .987 WHIP as one of the better relievers in baseball. Harris has been an integral part of the Astros successful run as one of their key relievers.
The only season which Will Harris has faced less than 229 batters in Houston was in 2017, a season which he only faced 177 batters in 46 games. Even in his injury-shortened 2017 season Harris was still consistent, finishing with a 2.98 ERA and .971 WHIP.
Something to consider with Will Harris is that he pitched at least one inning in 53 of his 68 appearances in 2019. The ability to face three batters will come into play with the new three batter minimum rule that MLB insists on instituting next season. As long as Harris can face three batters or finish the half inning there shouldn’t be any issues in 2020.
Will Harris will be 35 years old for the upcoming season. The Indians are no stranger when it comes to signing relievers that are a bit older. Oliver Perez turned 38 last season. Former Cleveland Indians reliever and current Minnesota Twin Tyler Clippard was 34. As long as they can produce, age does not seem to be a factor for Cleveland’s bullpen. The Indians still have some money to spend to add to their roster, improving their bullpen should an area they focus on.
