CLEVELAND — After considering some in-house options, the Cleveland Indians may have found their new closer on the outside.

Free agent John Axford, who had 46 saves for Milwaukee in 2011 but has struggled the past two seasons, agreed to a one-year, $4.5 million contract with the Indians, pending a physical. Axford is expected to undergo a medical exam Wednesday.

As long as there are no issues, Axford will likely close for the Indians in 2014, replacing Chris Perez, who was released on Oct. 31.

The 30-year-old Axford lost his closer’s job last year with the Brewers and was traded to St. Louis in August. He blew six save chances in 62 games last season with the Brewers before they dealt him to the Cardinals, who used him in a late-inning role.

Axford had a 1.74 ERA in 13 games for St. Louis.

The 6-foot-5 right-hander had his best season in 2011.