Cleveland Indians: There’s not much to trade to improve the roster

Upgrading the roster for the Cleveland Indians would be great. The problem is having the resources and being willing to make a deal.

So far this spring training there have been some surprises, but none more noticeable than the play of second baseman Jason Kipnis. The veteran Cleveland Indians’ infielder was mentioned as a trade target this past offseason following a down 2017 season.

By moving Kipnis among others, Cleveland could have saved money on their payroll while upgrading another position. To do so, however, they likely would have needed to add at least one minor leaguer.

Given Kipnis’ play and how the Tribe did not do much in the offseason, any potential move is likely the trade route. Yes, there are some veteran free agents out there that could help but that wouldn’t enough.

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So, the Indians are not going to trade Kipnis as they prepare for the opening day but are there any players who they could still move soon? Yes, but not many.

First off, any trade would again be best assumed that a minor leaguer must be part of a deal. Therefore, I am looking strictly at those Cleveland could move without adding anyone else if possible.

The Indians’ outfield isn’t blown away by many trade options. In fact, the lone one, Michael Brantley would only dealt if Cleveland were to pay nearly all the money on his one-year deal.

Then again, that would mean Cleveland would need to be confident in those behind him to make such a move. Since the club picked up his option, that should tell everyone where they stand on that so that’s out.

Pitcher Danny Salazar could have been an intriguing name to watch but now that he’s injured, he’s not an option. However, fellow pitcher Ryan Merritt may be someone Cleveland could consider moving in the near future if the price is right.

In terms of other position players, any of the three Indians’ catchers (Yan Gomes, Francisco Mejia, and Roberto Perez) should be on the table to various degrees. In fact, moving one of them may be Cleveland’s best bet to add to their roster looking around the infield.

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As exciting as it would be to see the Tribe make a trade in the coming weeks, don’t plan on it. Instead, seeing them keep someone on the 25-man roster like OF/IF Richie Shaffer seems more like their mindset.