Report: Miller nearing deal with Cardinals

Andrew Miller, a key part of the Indians bullpen since being acquired at the trading deadline in 2016, is close to signing a multi-year contract with the St. Louis Cardinals, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

The Indians realistically did not expect Miller to be back with the Tribe after he hit free agency at the end of the 2018 season. The only question was, where would he sign? The good news for the Indians is the 33-year-old lefty will be in the National League.

Miller is the second Indians free agent this week to sign with another team. Left fielder Michael Brantley signed a two-year, $32 million contract with the Houston Astros on Dec. 17.

Knee and shoulder injuries limited Miller to 37 games and 34 innings in 2018. He struck out 45 batters and posted a 4.24 ERA.

Miller was sensational for the Indians in their 2016 World Series run. He was 4-0 with a 1.55 ERA in 26 games in the regular season after being acquired from the Yankees at the trade deadline for four prospects, including outfielder Clint Frazier. He struck out 46 batters in 29 innings. He did not allow a run in six games and 11 2/3 innings against the Red Sox and Blue Jays in the American League playoffs. He gave up two home runs and three earned runs in four games and 7 2/3 innings in the World Series with the Chicago Cubs.

Miller appeared in 57 games in 2018 and struck out 95 batters in 65 2/3 innings.

Cody Allen, the Indians’ closer until he lost the job to Brad Hand in August, remains a free agent.

Rebuilding the bullpen is a priority for the Indians this offseason.