N&N: Dreaming about Starling Marte in centerfield for the Indians

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Tribe News

Indians were in the mix for Pittsburgh’s Starling Marte | cleveland.com

From Paul Hoynes:

At least the idea of adding payroll didn’t scare the Indians.

On Tuesday the Pirates traded center fielder Starling Marte to Arizona for prospects — infielder Liover Peguero and right-hander Brennan Malone. The Indians were in on Marte as well, but the rebuilding Pirates liked Arizona’s offer better.

The interest in Marte can be taken two ways — so what, the Indians didn’t close the deal. Or ownership was willing to add payroll for the right player. Owner Paul Dolan has slashed almost $44 million from the payroll over the last two years, but if the Indians acquired Marte, he would have not come cheaply.

Marte will make $11.5 million this year with a $12.5 million club option for 2021.

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