The Cleveland Indians today announced the club has signed free agent RHP STEPHEN FIFE to a Minor League contract with a non-roster invitation to Major League spring training camp, bringing the total number of non-roster invitees to 21.
Fife, 31, split the 2017 season between Triple-A New Orleans in the Miami organization and the Seibu Lions in Japan's Pacific League (June 20-end of season) after signing with the Marlins in December 2016. The Boise, ID native went 3-1 with a 2.70 ERA over his last five starts with New Orleans (30.0IP, 25H, 9ER, 25SO) from May 18-June 12 before being released to pursue an opportunity in Japan.
Fife began his professional career in 2008 after being selected by the Boston Red Sox in the 3rd round of the First-Year Player Draft out of the University of Utah. He was later acquired by the L.A. Dodgers in July 2011 and appeared in 18 games/16 starts with the Dodgers, 2012-14, posting a Major League mark of 4-6 with a 3.66 ERA (91.0IP, 101H, 37H, 33BB, 70SO). He missed the 2015 campaign after right elbow reconstruction and pitched in the Cubs system in 2016.