Twins trade Thome to Indians
Jim Thome(notes), who 20 years ago broke into the majors as a skinny third baseman for the Cleveland Indians and 10 days ago hit his 600th career home run for the Minnesota Twin, is headed back to Cleveland.
Thome, 40, waived his no-trade clause Thursday, clearing the way for the Twins to deal him to the Indians for a player to be named later, sources said.
Six-and-a-half games behind the Detroit Tigers and fading in the AL Central, the Indians lost designated-hitter Travis Hafner(notes) to the disabled list Sunday because of a foot injury.
Thome, who left Cleveland for the Philadelphia Phillies after the 2002 season, batted .248 with 12 home runs and 40 RBI for the Twins this year.
In 12 seasons in Cleveland, Thome hit 334 home runs and became a fan favorite for his powerful swing and nice-guy personality.
Thome could retire as an Indian, coming full circle in a career that could end in the Hall of Fame. The Indians play at home Friday night against the Kansas City Royals.
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