Lofton rejoins Indians

CLEVELAND -- Of the 11 uniforms Kenny Lofton has worn during a 17-year odyssey around the majors, there's only one he never wanted to take off.

He's wearing it once more.

Lofton returned for his third stint with Cleveland -- and another playoff run -- on Friday as the Texas Rangers traded the 40-year-old outfielder to the Indians for minor-league catcher Max Ramirez.

"I missed being in Cleveland," a beaming Lofton said after arriving at Jacobs Field. "It's the city that got me going."

Lofton was a five-time all-star in nine seasons (1992-96, 1998-2001) in Cleveland, the leadoff catalyst for the Indians, who dominated their division throughout the 1990s but haven't made the playoffs since he left as a free agent following the '01 season.

Although he's near the end of his career, the Indians believe Lofton can help them get back to the postseason. With David Dellucci on the disabled list and Trot Nixon slumping, Cleveland needed another outfielder.

Lofton was having a solid season -- his 17th in the majors -- batting .303 with 7 homers and 23 RBI for the Rangers.

"It's amazing what he can still do," said Indians manager Eric Wedge, who had Lofton batting second and in left field for Friday's series opener against the Minnesota Twins. "He brings a lot to our lineup and a great deal of experience to our clubhouse."