Indians begin New Year by signing Brett Myers

The Cleveland Indians have come to terms with right-hander Brett Myers, according to multiple sources. The deal is for one-year, but includes a club option for a second year. Terms of the deal haven't been released yet.

Myers recorded a 3.31 ERA in 2012, striking out 41 batters and walking 15 over 70 appearance and 65 1/3 innings. Myers started the season out of the Houston Astros bullpen, recording 19 saves before he was dealt to the Chicago White Sox. He stayed in the pen for the pale hose, but was used primarily as a set-up man, entering every game in the seventh game or later.

In 35 appearances with the lowly Astros, Myers pitched in 30 2/3 innings, striking out 20, while walking only six, He recorded a 3.52 ERA as the Astros closer. On July 21st, Houston sent the righty to the White Sox for three minor league prospects. He was even better in the American League, although he was in the set-up role. He made an equal 35 appearances over 34 2/3 innings, striking out 21 batters and walking nine. He lowered his ERA to 3.12 in his first career American League stint.

Myers was shopping himself this offseason as a starter, and he last was used as a regular starter from 2010-2011 with the Astros. During that two year stretch, Myers wen't 21-22 in 67 appearances (all but one as a starter), while striking out 340 and walking 123. His ERA was a solid 3.78.

While Myers has had successful stretches out of the bullpen over the years, he's been an incredibly durable starter. He was exclusively used as a starter for the Phillies from 2002-2006, and from 2003-2006, pitched in at least 176 innings all four seasons. In three of those seasons, he pitched more than 190 innings. The Phillies needed a closer in 2007, and Myers moved to the pen, saving 21 games for the Phillies that year. He moved back to the rotation in 2008, and again pitched in 190 innings that season.

Myers had an injury plagued 2009. He missed time with a torn labrum in his hip, and his return was pushed back until September after he injured his eye slipping out of his truck.

Myers pitched in 200 innings or more in both seasons as a starter for the Astros.

There is no doubt that the Indians have signed Myers as a starter, although there are reports to the contrary. It may be that the Indians ultimately use his as a reliever during the season, but that will only happen should either the need arise via trade or injury.

Tune into IPI for more information regarding the Myers trade.

Jim is currently the co-site editor, the ATF/Carolina Mudcats/Indians/General Site Columnist, and the co-host of IPI's weekly online radio show, Smoke Signals. You can follow Jim on Twitter @Jim_IPI, or contact him via e-mail at jpete@indiansprospectinsider.com.