Regardless of the reason why he was traded, Mike Clevinger is now with the Padres. Peter G. Aiken

Mike Clevinger has been a peripheral figure for the Cleveland Indians since he broke safety protocols. However, the Tribe is denying that it led to him being traded, however.

Clevinger was dealt to the San Diego Padres on Monday after several days of trade rumors. The trade comes exactly three weeks after Clevinger broke COVID-19 protocols and then misled Cleveland about it.

Indians president Chris Antonetti denied that the episode had anything to do with the decision to make the trade.

True or not? It’s hard to say. There were no Clevinger trade rumors until after the incident. He was promptly shipped to Cleveland's satellite camp then returned for one start last Wednesday.

There was chatter that Clevinger’s teammates were furious about his behavior. Maybe it’s all coincidence. It’s also possible that the organization decided that Clevinger had to go for the good of the team.

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