Indians claim Thome

Jim Thome (Photo: MLB)

Numerous reports have verified that the Indians have been awarded the claim on Twins designated hitter Jim Thome. This does not mean that the Indians have acquired Thome as the Twins can still pull him back, but what it means is the Indians have an exclusive 48-hour window to negotiate a trade with the Twins. The deadline to make a deal is 1:00 p.m. EST on Friday.

At the moment, Thome is playing for the Twins in their afternoon game against the Orioles. He is the designated hitter and is batting 6th.

If the Indians and Twins are unable to strike a deal then Thome can not be put through trade waivers again. The only way he would be able to join another team is if the Twins outright release him, something which is very possible but would be frowned upon by many in the industry. Plus, there is a feeling in the industry that the Twins and Indians will strike a deal to bring Thome back to his original team and the one he is most associated with in his career.

Follow Tony and the Indians Prospect Insider on Twitter @TonyIPI. Also, his latest book the 2011 Cleveland Indians Top 100 Prospects & More is available for purchase for $20.95 to customers in the US (shipping and handling extra). Use discount code 2Z6F362B to receive 40% off the book through the site store!