Originally published Saturday, June 27, 2009 at 2:15 PM

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Indians add Veras to roster, demote Jensen Lewis

Reliever Jose Veras was added to the Cleveland Indians' roster on Saturday and reliever Jensen Lewis was optioned to Triple-A Columbus.

CLEVELAND —

Reliever Jose Veras was added to the Cleveland Indians' roster on Saturday and reliever Jensen Lewis was optioned to Triple-A Columbus.

Veras, acquired on Wednesday from the Yankees for cash, went 3-1 with a 5.96 ERA in 25 appearances for New York before he was designated for assignment on June 16. He did not allow a run in nine of his last 12 appearances with the Yankees.

Lewis ended 2008 as the team's closer, converting all 13 of his save opportunities last August and September. But he is 2-3 with a 5.03 ERA this season, allowing nine home runs in 39 1-3 innings.

The Indians could be closer to getting back reliever Rafael Betancourt, who completed his third bullpen session on Saturday. He will pitch in a simulated game Monday as he continues to work his way back from a strained right groin.

Betancourt, on the 15-day disabled list since June 1, has been one of Cleveland's most consistent relievers over the last few years. He is 1-1 with a 3.71 ERA in 25 appearances this season.

"I feel pretty good, that's why I told them I want to throw a simulated game," Betancourt said. "I want to see a hitter in there and try to go a little bit harder with my pitches and see how it feels."

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