Cleveland, OH (My Sportsbook) - The Cleveland Indians are close to signing former New York Yankees outfielder Shane Spencer to a one-year contract. Spencer and the team are still working on terms of the contract, while he also has to pass a physical for the deal to become official.

Spencer, a post-season hero with the Yankees, will reportedly receive a base salary of $885,000, but there are several incentives that could easily push the total over the $1 million mark. New York had declined to offer Spencer arbitration.

Spencer spent 12 seasons in the Yankees organization, but never became a full- time player. He never had more than 300 at-bats in a season with the Yankees.

"I talked to a few other teams and had some better offers, money-wise," said Spencer. "But when it came down to it, I like the communication with Eric (Wedge) and Mark (Shapiro), and the opportunity is better here. I'm going to get more at-bats -- not all in one place, but that's OK. I'll play some first, some outfield, I can help Ellis Burks at designated hitter. The opportunities are there."

There is a chance that Spencer could become the Indians starter in leftfield. Veteran Matt Lawton is recovering from shoulder surgery and it is uncertain when he will be ready to return to action.

In 94 games with New York in the 2002 season, Spencer batted .247 with six home runs and 34 runs batted in. For his career, Spencer is a .263 hitter with 43 home runs and 167 runs batted in through 346 games.