MLB Free Agents 2012: Indians Making Strong Push for Carlos Beltran

After jumping out of the gates early with their acquisition of veteran starter Derek Lowe, the Indians have kept themselves under the radar with minor deals this offseason. Although the Tribe were reportedly in on the Josh Willingham talks, GM Chris Antonetti has sustained a conservative approach thus far this winter, adding only minor parts such as Felix Pie, Jose Lopez and Andy LaRoche to an offense that struggled to score in 2011, ranking 16th overall in the MLB.

The Indians also resigned CF Grady Sizemore after initially declining his club option, but with health concerns still an issue, Antonetti is still looking to add offense this winter.

According to Buster Olney of ESPN.com, the Indians have apparently joined the list of suitors for free agent Carlos Beltran.

Scott Miller of CBSSports.com has also reported that the Tribe are "seriously in the mix" for Beltran along with the Cardinals, Blue Jays, Rays and Red Sox.

Beltran, 34, was a hot item on the trade market during the first half of last season before the Giants acquired him for prospect Zach Wheeler and cash on July 28th. Beltran batted a combined .300 with 22 HRs and 84 RBIs with the Mets and Giants in 2011. The Indians were reportedly in on the trade talks for Beltran back in July but many speculated that the former All-Star would have used his no-trade clause to block a trip to Cleveland.