Indians exercise Aviles's $3.5M option

The Cleveland Indians have retained the services of utility infielder Mike Aviles by exercising their $3.5-million option, the team announced Friday. 

Acquired in a trade with Yan Gomes that sent reliever Esmil Rogers to the Toronto Blue Jays in 2012, Aviles has proven to be a serviceable option at multiple positions for Indians manager Terry Francona. 

In 237 games over two seasons in Cleveland, the 33-year-old has appeared at third base, shortstop, second base and all three outfield positions while hitting .250/.277/.356. 

"My excitement level is extremely high because of where the team is," Aviles said following the announcement. "Had my option been declined, I would've been a little upset because of the movement that was going with the team.

"Everything is going in the right direction."

In 133 games last season, Aviles hit .247/.273/.343 with 16 doubles, five home runs and 39 RBIs.