CLEVELAND — A person familiar with the agreement says free agent outfielder Carlos Gonzalez intends to sign a minor league contract with the Cleveland Indians.
Gonzalez, who played the past 10 seasons with Colorado, will sign once he completes a physical and join the Indians at spring training, said the person who spoke Saturday to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the deal has not been finalized.
If he’s added to the 40-man roster, Gonzalez will get a $2 million contract in the major leagues. He can also earn $1 million in performance bonuses.
A three-time All-Star, Gonzalez has hit .287 over 11 seasons. The left-hander batted .276 with 16 homers and 64 RBIs with the Rockies last season.
Gonzalez drove in 100 runs and hit 25 homers in 2016.
The Indians have been in need of outfield help since Michael Brantley signed with Houston. Veteran outfielder Matt Joyce, who also signed a minor league contract after dealing with a back injury last season, has been told he will not make the opening-day roster.
Leonys Martin will likely be the starting center fielder when the Indians open the season in Minnesota on March 28. Several players are battling for the other two outfield spots, but no clear leaders have emerged.
