CLEVELAND -- After losing outfielder Jay Bruce to the New York Mets, the Cleveland Indians agreed to terms with a familiar face on Friday, re-signing outfielder Lonnie Chisenhall to a one-year deal.
Chisenhall's new contract, which was first reported by USA Today's Bob Nightengale, will pay him $5,587,500 in 2018. Following the offseason departure of Bruce, as well as that of first baseman Carlos Santana, Chisenhall figures to factor more prominently into the Indians plans this season, thanks to his versatility. In addition to his experience in both the infield and outfield, the 29-year-old possesses enough power to fill in at designated hitter.
Between injuries and a crowded Cleveland roster, Chisenhall appeared in 82 games in 2017, hitting for a .288 average to go along with 12 home runs and 53 runs batted in. He also played in four of the Indians' five games in the American League Division Series, going hitless in five at-bats.
Earlier this week, Cleveland also avoided arbitration with closer Cody Allen, agreeing to a one-year, $10.575 million contract.
