Report: Jason Giambi Signs Minor League Contract With Indians

by Doug Kyed on Sun, Feb 10, 2013 at 11:22AM

Jason Giambi is back in the American League.

After 3 1/2 years with the Colorado Rockies, Giambi has signed a minor league deal with the Cleveland Indians, according to the Denver Post. He’ll be a non-roster invitee, and if he makes the major league club, he’ll make $750,000.

Earlier in the offseason Giambi interviewed with the Rockies for manager and hitting coach. He passed on the hitting coach opportunity to make one last go of it as a player.

Last season the 18-year veteran hit .225 with one home run and eight RBIs in 113 plate appearances. He had a .675 OPS. In 2011, he was much more successful when he hit .260 with a .958 OPS and 13 home runs.

Giambi was mostly used a pinch hitter in the National League, but he did start 34 games at first base over the past two seasons. Returning to the American League gives him the opportunity to be a designated hitter. The Indians don’t currently have a full-time player at that position.

Photo via Facebook/Jason Giambi