The Indians knew starting pitcher Cody Anderson would be recalled from Triple-A to make Saturday’s start against the Kansas City Royals. The question was, what’s the corresponding move to make room on the active 25-man roster?
It turns out the Indians felt they had one too many outfielders in the mix to send down or designate a relief pitcher for assignment, as Tyler Naquin was optioned to Triple-A Columbus.
Naquin has played well for the most part since earning a job in spring training, hitting .315 with two doubles, two triples and two RBI. But, he also had all three minor league options remaining, and the club didn’t want to lose a reliever in the bullpen.