Smoke signals

• As part of Monday's roster reductions, the Indians optioned right-handed reliever C.C. Lee to Triple-A Columbus. In nine Cactus League games this spring, Lee posted a 3.24 ERA with 12 strikeouts and five walks in 8 1/3 innings.

"I think's C.C. Lee's future is burning bright," Francona said. "This may be more about wanting to make sure at the beginning of the year that we get him consistent innings. ... I'll be shocked if he's not helping us at some point, being a big part of our bullpen."

• Antonetti indicated that right-hander Shaun Marcum, who is working his way back from July surgery to alleviate thoracic outlet syndrome, will most likely begin the season on the Minor League disabled list. Marcum logged one inning in a Minor League game on Sunday.

"He's progressing," Antonetti said. "I don't think he'll be ready for the start of Minor League games. Our goal with Shaun, as we've said from the beginning, is big picture. We want to make sure we put him in the best position to be successful, not only for the balance of this year, but for the balance of his career."

• Non-roster veteran Jason Giambi (fractured rib in his right side) began swinging a bat with contact on Sunday and was scheduled to hit off a tee and soft toss on Monday. The Indians have until Tuesday to determine whether Giambi will be added to the active roster and placed on the Major League disabled list.

• Cleveland reassigned non-roster first basemen Bryan LaHair and David Cooper to Minor League camp on Monday. Catcher Luke Carlin was told he would also be reassigned to the Minors, but he will remain with the big league club until camp breaks. Infielder Justin Sellers is expected to be optioned to the Minors within the next few days.

• The Indians are scheduled to play exhibition games against the Padres on Friday and Saturday at the University of San Diego. Francona noted on Monday that Cleveland would bring some extra players beyond its Opening Day roster to help in those contests.