Cleveland and Cora Reach Deal
Former Dodger infielder Alex Cora agreed Tuesday to a $2.7-million, two-year contract with the Cleveland Indians to fill a utility role.
“Alex is overqualified to be called a utility player and has the upside to be a starter,” Indian General Manager Mark Shapiro said. “He should get a chance to start 50, 60 games.”
Cora, 29, started 122 games at second base last season, but the Indians already have Ronnie Belliard in that role. The Dodgers didn’t offer Cora a contract last month, allowing him to become a free agent.
Shapiro said Cora was brought in to give the Indians protection while bringing up shortstop Jhonny Peralta and second baseman Brandon Phillips.
“I’m comfortable at either position and I understand this is a different situation than I had in Los Angeles,” Cora said. “I know Ronnie had a great season last year and that Jhonny is one of the top prospects in baseball. I’ll just help the best way I can.”
Cora hit .264 last season with 10 home runs and 47 runs batted in in 138 games. He had a fielding percentage of .987, fifth best among NL second basemen.
His contract calls for salaries of $1.3 million this year and $1.4 million in 2006. He can make up to about $5 million over two years, including performances bonuses, and can void the second year if he has 450 plate appearances in 2005.
