Even as he packed his bags for New York, Austin Kearns knew there was a good chance he would be back in Cleveland. Kearns, who spent four months with the Indians last season before he was traded to the Yankees, returned to the club on Monday by agreeing to a $1.3 million, one-year contract. Kearns made Cleveland's roster out of training camp and was with the Indians until July 30, when he was dealt for pitcher Zach McAllister. Kearns had discussions with the Indians about returning prior to the trade. "I knew there was a chance," Kearns said. "In the end, Cleveland was the right place to come back to and play. I enjoyed playing here. There are a lot of good guys on the team, guys I've maintained relationships with. They have a lot of talented young guys on this team. I enjoyed playing with everyone." Kearns batted .272 with eight homers and 42 RBIs in 84 games for Cleveland. With the Yankees, he batted .235 with two homers and seven RBIs in 36 games. The Indians made a priority of signing a right-handed hitting outfielder this offseason, and Kearns was available for the right price. Read more: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=5938975
