Cleveland Indians: Five 2018 spring training predictions
By Ryan Rosko
How about trading Jason Kipnis… or not
To trade Kipnis or to not trade Kipnis is the question. Doesn’t it seem like every time Cleveland was rumored to trade Kipnis it felt too good to be true? If the Tribe dealt their second baseman, they have other options but nothing has been completed as of yet.
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By trading Kipnis, Cleveland improves their payroll situation and increases their chances to re-sign other key players or trade for other teams’ difference-makers.
Like LF Michael Brantley, Kipnis has had a nice run in Cleveland but both of them needs to be replaced. Sooner rather than later Cleveland’s ownership and front office will realize they are only hurting themselves by keeping players like them on ridiculous deals right? Hopefully, they do.
I hope the following prediction is wrong but I don’t see it: Continued trade rumors will be a topic of interest but it goes nowhere. As a result, the Indians have to keep Kipnis.
Part of me says it doesn’t matter what the return is for Kipnis as long as Cleveland moves him. Then again, when healthy, Kipnis can still be a solid contributor but if he got dealt, at least make it a worthwhile trade.
If the Indians acquired Baltimore Orioles 3B/SS Manny Machado or even just a team’s outfielder, seeing a double play combination of SS Francisco Lindor and 3B (at 2B) Jose Ramirez on a regular basis would be preferred.
If somehow Cleveland doesn’t trade Kipnis, fine. It’s not ideal but I along with many of you I am sure won’t complain as much if he stays healthy and puts up good numbers all season.