Catcher ‘n’ the Tribe: Crew, Lucroy turn page?

CLEVELAND — The Indians have been searching for a way to punch the gas with an American League Central title in their sights. Cleveland appears to be on the cusp of doing just that with the addition of standout catcher Jonathan Lucroy.

According to multiple reports on Saturday night, the Indians have reached an agreement with the Brewers to acquire Lucroy, a two-time All-Star, as part of a multi-prospect package. MLB Network’s Ken Rosenthal reported that Milwaukee would be receiving four players in exchange for Lucroy, who would still need to waive his no-trade clause to approve the deal. Neither club has confirmed the agreement.

Three prospects reportedly heading to the Brewers are catcher Francisco Mejia — ranked sixth on MLBPipeline.com’s list of the Tribe’s Top 30 prospects — shortstop Yu-Cheng Chang (No. 12) and outfielder Greg Allen (No. 22). All three players are with Class A Advanced Lynchburg.

The 30-year-old Lucroy would fill what has been an offensive abyss for the Indians this season.

Catchers Yan Gomes, Roberto Perez and Chris Gimenez — while providing above-average defense — have combined for a .167/.215/.286 slash line. That group’s 30 weighted Runs Created Plus, indicating the offensive production has been 70 percent below league average, ranked last in the Major Leagues. Gomes is also sidelined at least another month with a separated right shoulder.

Lucroy is not only a highly-rated defender and pitch framer, but one of the …

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