The Indians announced that they have designated outfielder Thomas Neal for assignment. The move will allow them to make room for Nick Swisher on the 40-man roster.
Neal, 25, was rated as a top 100 prospect before the 2010 season as a member of the Giants organization. He was then traded to the Indians in July 2011 for Orlando Cabrera in a deal that allowed Cleveland to give their own youngsters more playing time. Neal spent the 2012 season with Double-A Akron and posted a .314/.400/.467 slash line in 470 plate appearances. He also spent nine games on the Tribe's varsity squad last year.