Less than an hour ago, the official Indians Twitter feed had this tweet: “We have declined our 2016 option on Ryan Raburn, making him a free agent. We wish Ryan the best of luck!”
The club had to make a decision about Raburn’s $3 million 2016 option by the third day following the final 2015 World Series game—in other words, by today. Raburn will instead receive a payout of $100,000, and is now a free agent.
Raburn played for the Tribe from 2013 through 2015. Used almost exclusively against left-handed pitchers, the utility player hit .257 with 28 homers for the Indians in 611 at-bats.
Of course, the Indians are perfectly free to extend an offer to Raburn, but I wouldn’t count on that happening. Raburn’s defense wasn’t his strong suit, and the front office is probably looking to sign players who can do better with the glove for 2016.
Personally, I’ll miss the guy. I always liked seeing him in the lineup. I wish him luck!