"Jim Thome is coming back to Cleveland. He could be in uniform Friday when the Indians open a three-game series against Kansas City at Progressive Field.

The Indians acquired Thome from the Twins for a player to be named on or before Oct. 15. The Indians claimed Thome, 40, on waivers Wednesday and had until 1 p.m. Friday to make a deal for him.

Thome had a no-trade clause and in his one-year, $3 million deal with the Twins and had to waive it to approve the trade to Cleveland. The Indians are expected to pick up the remaining $500,000 to $600,000 on his contract.

"Jim Thome is a Hall of Fame-caliber player and person," said Indians GM Chris Antonetti. "He has meant so much to this organization both on and off the field and it is an honor to bring him back in an Indians uniform where he created so many great memories.

"Having his bat and presence in the middle of the lineup certainly improves our team.""