Sellers eyes utility role with Indians

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Justin Sellers knows that the Indians value having versatile utility players available off the bench. The recently acquired infielder is hoping to use this spring to show Cleveland that he has the ability to fill that type of role.

"I'm very versatile," Sellers said Wednesday. "I'm here to show them what I can do and hopefully get an opportunity with this organization and with this club. This is my 10th year as a pro. I've been in the Minor Leagues a lot, but I'm looking for that opportunity to just break through.

"I'm 28 years old. I'm not old, but I'm not young. So I'm hoping for the opportunity to maybe be a utility guy. If I have to play a couple days a week and back up these guys, I'm OK with that. I'm here to work hard and do whatever I have to do to help this team win."

The Indians obtained Sellers on Sunday in exchange for cash considerations after the Dodgers designated him for assignment Feb. 22. Cleveland designated David Cooper for assignment to open a spot on the 40-man roster, but the first baseman cleared waivers and is back in camp as a non-roster invitee.

Sellers has had three cups of coffee with Los Angeles, hitting .199 in 82 career big leagues games between the 2011-13 seasons. In parts of nine seasons in the Minor Leagues, he has hit .268 with a .748 OPS, appearing mostly as a shortstop. Sellers has also played second and third base, and has some limited experience in the outfield.

Last year, Sellers hit .270 with six home runs, 65 RBIs and a .755 OPS in 89 games for Triple-A Albuquerque.

"I got pretty lucky," Sellers said of being traded. "I found myself with a great group of guys and I'm getting to know them. It's been great. They all welcomed me. I'm glad to be an Indians, I'll tell you that."