Rather than spend money on Cyber Monday, the Indians dealt reliever Adam Cimber to the Miami Marlins in exchange for cash considerations.
Cimber was designated for assignment last week after the Indians claimed Jordan Humphreys off waivers from the San Francisco Giants. The trade of Cimber, along with the Indians declining Brad Hand’s club option for 2021, leaves the bullpen barren of the total return for catcher Francisco Mejia, who was dealt to the San Diego Padres for both relievers at the 2018 trade deadline.
Cimber gave up five earned runs on 13 hits and struck out five in 11⅓ innings last season. In three seasons with the Indians, Cimber posted a 4.30 ERA and 4.70 FIP with 53 strikeouts in 88 innings.
The leading candidates in what will be a new-look Indians bullpen in 2021 include James Karinchak, Emmanuel Clase, Nick Wittgren, Cam Hill, Phil Maton and Kyle Nelson. A number of other options who could add to the team’s starting depth or bolster the bullpen include Cal Quantrill and Adam Plutko.