Esquivel signs with Indians

One of the York Revolution’s most popular players is getting a second chance in affiliated baseball.

Matt Esquivel, once a prized Atlanta Braves prospect, has signed a minor league contract with the Cleveland Indians, according to Revolution officials. The 25-year-old outfielder finished with a .294 average, 35 doubles, 13 homers and 77 RBIs in his one year with the Revs — impressive numbers considering his dreadful start to the season.

As you will all probably recall, Esquivel landed in independent baseball at a really young age because of a series of undisclosed incidents off the field that he played a part in during his time with the Braves. Atlanta grew tired of it and released him, but Esquivel redeemed his reputation and his playing career with a successful season in York, on and off the field.

The San Antonio, Tex. native — who had talks of walking on as a running back at Nebraska years ago — grew very close with many York players and seemed to really enjoy his time with the Revolution. He had this to say about his time with the Revs after York’s loss to Somerset in the playoffs.

“It’s just being around the guys,” Esquivel said. “It’s not every year you get to play with the group of guys we have right now. Not only do we get to share the baseball field, but we get to share our personal lives. And it’s just one of those things where I’ve been able to open up.”