TRIBE GET GLOVEMAN McDONALD
The Cleveland Indians acquired infielder John McDonald from the Pittsburgh Pirates for a player to be named later or cash considerations.
What does it give the Cleveland Guardians
A recent injury to regular shortstop {P Asdrubal Cabrera} prompted Cleveland to acquire more infield depth. Enter McDonald, who has bounced around a bit since leaving Toronto. His defensive work has never been in question but he simply doesn't hit enough to play regularly. Still, he'll help the Indians in the short term.
What does it give the Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates decided to part ways with McDonald, since they already had a strong defensive shortstop with a lack of offense in starter {P Clint Barmes}. Therefore, they didn't feel the need to keep McDonald around. This is good news for {P Jordy Mercer}, who has a better stick than either Barmes or McDonald.
Fantasy impact
McDonald may cut into {P Mike Aviles}' playing time at shortstop during Cabrera's absence in Cleveland. Otherwise, this move doesn't really have fantasy implications for the Tribe. As for the Bucs, McDonald's departure should open up some playing time for Mercer (who is a fantasy super-sleeper for the rest of 2013).
