Report: Indians to decline Hand's option after placing him on waivers

The Cleveland Indians have placed left-handed closer Brad Hand on outright waivers, intending to decline his $10-million option for the 2021 season if he goes unclaimed, sources tell The Athletic's Zack Meisel.

If another team claims Hand, the Indians won't be responsible for paying the $1-million buyout attached to the 30-year-old's contract, Meisel adds.

Hand has been one of baseball's top closers since 2017, saving 103 games while authoring a 2.61 ERA and 2.87 FIP.

The 30-year-old also struck out 12.6 hitters-per-nine during that same time frame.

The Indians acquired the three-time All-Star from the San Diego Padres in July 2018.