Shane Spencer opted playing time over the team he has been with in his entire 12 year career. Shane signed a one year deal with the Cleveland Indians. This deal will give Shane more playing time as an outfielder. Shane joined the Yankees minor league system in 1991 after he was drafted in the 1990 amateur draft.
Spencer, 30 years of age, will help the Indians outfield for the rebuilding of the team.
Spencer said he enjoyed his postseason experience with New York but was often frustrated at the lack of playing time.
"I think I am more excited right now then I have been in the last three or four years,'' Spencer said Tuesday at Jacobs Field.
Spencer said he views this year as a chance to prove himself as an everyday player, and said he wouldn't mind staying in Cleveland for more than one season.
"I don't just want to be puddle jumping,'' he said. "Hopefully, something good will happen here and we can build on it.''
Spencer first joined the Yankees big league team late in the 1998 season after playing most of the season in Columbus. He hit 10 home runs in 27 games played and he won his first World Series ring.
