Bourn ready to 'rock 'n' roll in Cleveland
The Cleveland Indians and outfielder Michael Bourn agreed to a four-year, $48 million deal earlier in the week. On Friday, the deal became official when Bourn passed his physical, signed his contract and was added to the roster.
"It was a long off-season, but it was fun for me," Bourn said, via the Cleveland Plain Dealer. "It taught me patience. It was interesting. I landed in a spot where I think that I'm wanted, where they're committed to me and I'm committed to them, and that was my main focus. ... I'm ready to rock 'n' roll."
The 30-year-old Gold Glove winner gives the Indians three center fielders in their outfield. Michael Brantley, last year's center fielder for the Indians, moves to left. Drew Stubbs -- acquired in a trade with the Cincinnati Reds -- will patrol right field.
Besides stellar defense, Bourn has led the National League in steals three times. In the past five year, he has swiped 257 bases, 55 more than any other player in the majors.
Bourn, a two-time All-Star, batted .274 with nine homers, 57 RBI and 42 steals last season for the Braves.
Bourn is the second major free-agent signing by the Indians this offseason. Earlier, the team agreed with Ohio native and former New York Yankees outfielder Nick Swisher on a four-year, $56 million contract.
Pitcher Josh Tomlin was placed on the 60-day disabled list to create a roster spot Bourn.
