Cleveland Indians: 5 surprise trade spots for Francisco Lindor

1. Reds

Cincinnati is willing to make a deal on a short-term bet, evidenced by the team’s decision to acquire Trevor Bauer at the 2019 deadline.

It’s a move that paid off, as Bauer helped Cincinnati reach the postseason for the first time since 2013.

The Reds didn’t score a run in the postseason, though, and need more help at the plate. Lindor would certainly provide fireworks in the bandbox that is Great American Ball Park.

Signing Lindor long term would seem like a long shot for the Reds, but owner Bob Castellini has shown he will spend. I still can’t believe Joey Votto will have spent over a decade in a Reds uniform, but ownership ponied up and locked in their biggest star.

Considering the Reds relationship with the Indians–they share Spring Training facilities and have been trade partners recently–it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Cincinnati come out of nowhere to get the four-time All-Star.

For what it’s worth, Cincinnati did flirt with the notion of trading for Lindor before the start of the season.Plus, from an Indians perspective, they have a collection of prospects for the Indians to pursue.