Johnny Damon’s deal with the Cleveland Indians is now official. Via Buster Olney:
Johnny Damon Indians Contract Includes Performance Bonuses
Johnny Damon will get $1.25 million in base salary, $1.4 million in performance bonuses, from the Indians.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) April 12, 2012
That’s not a lot of money for a player who did have a productive season with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2011: .261/.326/.418, a 110 OPS+, 16 home runs and 19 stolen bases. Damon made $5.25 million for that with the Rays.
But at age 38, and after the 2012 season has already begun, it’s apparently “beggars can’t be choosers” time for Damon. According to this article, it still could be a little while before he’s ready to play:
Damon, who could play left or center field, must pass a physical. And although he’s in excellent shape, Damon will likely need some time to get ready to play after not going to training camp or face live pitching since last season.
He’ll have to play the outfield most of the time, as the Indians already have Travis Hafner at DH.
For more on Damon and the Indians, please visit Let’s Go Tribe and SB Nation Cleveland.
See More:
