"Just as some fans like to point out that Jim Thome didn't have to leave the Tribe, it's also true that he didn't have to return.

Thome left the Indians as a free agent after the 2002 season. He came back this weekend because he wanted to, because this town and this franchise still remain close to his heart.

Yes, it was Minnesota that traded Thome to the Tribe on Thursday night. But Thome also had the right to veto any deal. Or he could have said, "Sure, I'll come to Cleveland -- but how about some cash for me to drop the no-trade clause?" Other players have done that.

Thome seemed just glad to come home. "