Eaton cautiously happy about LeBron news

CLEVELAND -- The buzz and excitement running through Cleveland on Friday was palpable with LeBron James announcing his return to the Cavaliers. People were gathered outside the Quicken Loans Arena, located next to Progressive Field, celebrating and chanting "L-B-J" for the numerous camera crews.

White Sox manager Robin Ventura even had one individual ask to take a picture with him and a homemade sign announcing James' return on his walk to the ballpark. Ventura politely declined.

"Everybody was really excited," Ventura said. "It was a fun walk over."

White Sox center fielder Adam Eaton, a Cavs fan who grew up in Springfield, Ohio, admitted to getting rid of his James jersey upon his departure from Cleveland for Miami. But Eaton was happy for the great impact James' return would have on Cleveland itself.

"The economy boost is very much needed here," Eaton said. "It's definitely going to be good and I'll continue to watch the Cavs like I have when he was gone. We went from the worst teams in the NBA to now we're the favorites. I'm excited.

"In all sports, people can forgive athletes in certain situations and I don't think he's any different. I'm not going to tell any athlete what he needs to do with his life. He has been very successful in Miami. I'm sure Cleveland is excited to have him back, for sure. And being a Cavs fan I'm pretty excited, too, but I guess you never kind of forget the hardness of when he left."