 He was linked to the Cleveland Indians because his brother Joe Sewell became their starting shortstop in 1920.When Indians scout Patsy Flaherty signed Sewell, he insisted that he play as a catcher.He began the 1921 season with the Columbus Senators in the American Association but, after only 17 minor league games, Sewell made his major league debut with the Cleveland Indians on June 30, 1921.