Cleveland Indians: The Athletic’s 2 trade proposals for Clevinger, Plesac

The Athletic’s trade offers for Cleveland Indians’ Mike Clevinger and Zach Plesac.

The Cleveland Indians are in a soft part of their schedule, as games against the Pirates and Tigers are helping keep the first-place Twins within striking distance.

That said, Tribe fans are awaiting the team’s decision regarding the future of Mike Clevinger and Zach Plesac for breaking team rules specific to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Tribe doesn’t have to do anything with 2/5 of its rotation, but national writers can’t stop talking trade.

Clevinger, 29, would seem to the pitcher who’s more likely to be dealt. He’s making $4.1 this season, but his number could soon be inflated via arbitration. Currently, he can be a free agent after the 2022 season.

Plesac, on the other hand is younger, cheaper and under club control for much longer.

Either way, both are under club control for multiple seasons, so both should command nice returns.

Of course, the Tribe could always let things play out and see if time will heal the wounds of mistrust some in the organization have toward the two starters.

While these five trade packages might be more enticing, The Athletic’s Jim Bowden  also wrote about some interesting scenarios ahead of the Aug. 31 deadline.