MLB rumors: Cleveland Indians talking to closer Grant Balfour

Oct 10, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Athletics relief pitcher Grant Balfour (50) pitches against the Detroit Tigers during the ninth inning in game five of the American League divisional series playoff baseball game at O.co Coliseum. The Detroit Tigers defeated the Oakland Athletics 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports /

The Cleveland Indians are currently void of a closer after letting Chris Perez walk, meaning it’s a role they need to fill.

It’s possible the team could look to an internal option, though as of right now they’re going through the free agent market and have recently spoken to Grant Balfour who previously was closing for the Oakland Athletics:

"Indians have talked with Grant Balfour, sources say. They need a closer."

Balfour won’t come cheaply and given the always thin market on closers, the Indians will certainly have competition for his services as teams like the Baltimore Orioles, New York Yankees, Colorado Rockies and Settle Mariners still look for closer help.

That said, Balfour would likely be fantastic in Cleveland.

The 35-year-old fireman registered an impressive 2.59 ERA last season and would certainly have a few fun battles with Detroit Tigers designated hitter Victor Martinez, a fellow AL Central foe.

The race to sign Balfour should heat up very soon and the Indians look as if they’ll be right in the mix, at least right now.

Make sure you continue to check out FanSided’s MLB Winter Meetings: Day One live blog for up-to-the-moment rumors.

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