A difficult decision finally came to its conclusion Wednesday when the Indians traded utility infielder Giovanny Urshela to the Toronto Blue Jays for cash considerations.
Urshela was designated for assignment last week upon completion of his rehab assignment from a strained hamstring he suffered near the end of spring training. Entering camp, the Indians knew they would likely lose Urshela or Erik Gonzalez once the season started, as they had only one utility spot available on the roster and neither player had an option remaining.
Urshela either needed to be traded or pass through waivers to be sent down to the minor leagues.
Urshela's stint on the disabled list delayed the situation, and Gonzalez played well enough to essentially force the Indians' hand. Gonzalez is hitting .375 this season and had a career day _ four hits and four RBIs in the doubleheader against the Blue Jays on May 3 _ before the Indians had to designate one of their utility infielders for assignment.
Urshela, known mostly for his defense at third base, hit .225 with a .587 OPS in 423 at-bats for the Indians between the 2015 and 2017 seasons.
