Indians rumors: Drew Stubbs 'eminently available'

The Cleveland Indians signing of free agent Michael Bourn leaves fellow offseason acquisition Drew Stubbs as the odd man out, according to Jon Heyman, who adds that the outfielder is "eminently available."

Following the Bourn signing, Paul Hoynes of The Plain Dealer reported that it didn't sound like the agreement would prompt the Indians to trade Stubbs or Michael Brantley. If they decide to hold onto both players, it would likely mean that Nick Swisher would shift to first base with Mark Reynolds becoming a regular designated hitter.

However, Heyman isn't convinced, as he views Stubbs as the more likely of the two outfielders to be shipped out of town. Considering the lack of alternatives on the open market, Heyman believes that if the Indians do make Stubbs available the New York Mets would do well to get involved.

Related: With Bourn in hand, Lohse makes sense for Indians

The Mets missed out on Bourn and other free agents, including Scott Hairston, and Heyman believes Stubbs would become the team's best outfielder if they were to acquire him.

The Indians acquired Stubbs earlier this offseason in the three-team trade that sent Shin-Soo Choo to the Cincinnati Reds. The 28-year-old is a former top prospect that's struggled recently in the majors. After an impressive 2010 campaign (.255/.329/.444), Stubbs has hit a combined .230/.302/.350 over the past two seasons.