Archer reflects on brief stint with Indians

ST. PETERSBURG -- Right-hander Chris Archer was originally drafted by the Indians in the fifth round of the 2006 Draft.

"Reflecting on it at this moment, [being traded] was the best thing that could have happened to me in my career," Archer said.

Archer was traded by the Indians to the Cubs in 2008 and acquired by the Rays in '11.

"Everything that happens in life, happens for a reason," said Archer, who will make his eighth start of the season Sunday against the Tribe. "If I had stayed in the Indians' organization, I don't know if I'd be here today.

"I learned a lot in the Indians' organization. I also learned this is a business, and we're all pawns, subject to being traded."