Smoke signals

• Free-agent reliever Chris Perez, who was released by the Indians after this past season, was on hand at the Winter Meetings on Monday to meet with interested teams. Former Indians outfielder Grady Sizemore is also expected to be at the Meetings this week, looking for a contract after missing all of last season because of injury woes.

• The Indians -- in the market for a closer and bullpen depth -- reportedly have talked to the representatives of free-agent closer Grant Balfour. Cleveland will undoubtedly talk to a variety of free-agent relievers, especially those with late-inning experience, at the Meetings this week.

• Cleveland was also reported to show some level of interest in free-agent right-hander Jason Hammel, who went 7-8 with a 4.97 ERA in 26 games for the Orioles last season. It is believed that the Indians' interest has waned because Hammel is seeking a three- or four-year contract.

• On Monday, Indians outfield prospect Tyler Naquin (selected by the Indians with the 15th pick in the 2012 Draft) was named to the Arizona Fall League's 2013 Top Prospects Team. In 27 games, Naquin posted a .339/.400/.417 slash line with six extra-base hits, 18 RBIs and 22 runs scored. Naquin is ranked by MLB.com as the organization's fifth-best prospect.