The Cleveland Indians made a trade this afternoon. Rumors on local radio had it pegged as a "significant deal," which probably meant a reliever was on the way. But before you sit up and wonder whether the Tribe beat the Tigers to one of the coveted closers or middle relievers out there, sit back and take a deep breath.
The Indians did make a deal, but it wasn't for someone the Tigers have their eyes on. They didn't get bullpen help (yet), but did snag someone who should help their lineup. Earlier this afternoon, Cleveland acquired Kenny Lofton from the Texas Rangers for minor league catcher Max Ramirez. This will be Lofton's third tour of duty with the Tribe.
Lofton is expected to play left field for Cleveland (though he's never played anywhere but center), possibly in a platoon with Jason Michaels. There's also speculation that Lofton could take over the leadoff spot in the batting order, allowing Grady Sizemore to move down to a run-producing spot.
For the season (84 games with Texas), Lofton is batting .303/.380/.438 with seven home runs, 29 RBI, and 29 stolen bases.
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