Cleveland Indians: 5 trade destinations for Mike Clevinger or Zach Plesac

3. Padres

Before the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown baseball, the Indians and Padres had been tied together in several rumors. Corey Kluber’s name was often tossed around. Even Francisco Lindor’s popped up.

There’s another name that caught our attention, as well: Clevinger. In a story by The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, the longtime scribe wrote how San Diego may be more willing to meet the Indians high asking price for someone such as Clevinger, rather than Kluber. Makes sense. Clev is younger, cheaper and under club control for a longer period of time.

If your the Tribe and you’re looking for a nice return, the Padres are the team you want to deal with, as their minor league system is ranked No. 2 in baseball.

Shortstop C.J. Abrams (No. 26) would be a great addition, but at 19, he’s still a long way away from playing on The Corner. Catcher Luis Campusano, 21, would also be a nice player to stash in the system, as he’s a few years away, as well.

Mackenzie Gore is the fifth-ranked prospect in MLB, but he’d probably be starting at Class AA next season. Taylor Trammell, ranked No. 51, is also in the Padres system. He was a part of the three-team trade that involved Franmil Reyes and Bauer, but it was also rumored the Indians had interest in the outfielder.