Cleveland Indians: What’s Francisco Lindor’s trade value right now?

What kind of trade value does Cleveland Indians SS Francisco Lindor have?

Prior to COVID, the expectation was that Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor wouldn’t have as high a trade value if the Tribe waited to make a deal.

Over the past 2 1/2 seasons, there have been rumors, but Lindor’s continued to be a fixture on the middle infield at Progress Field.

But now, time’s really run out. Lindor will be a free agent after 2021 and the Tribe has zero chance of extending the four-time All-Star. The front office is rumored to be looking for trade, but Lindor’s value has dropped, as he can walk at the end of the season.

MLB.com Anthony Castrovince Tweeted the following about the return Lindor would yield.

":”I think if CLE were to get a top 10 prospect form a good system (or a viable big-league-ready young player), $20M+ of salary relief and another prospect piece, they will have done well. Lindor’s name value is unfortunately > trade value 1 year from FA and w/ teams watching $ closely.”"

The Indians claimed to have lost “Tens of millions of dollars,” and other teams will be watching the bottom line, as well. That may end up eliminating teams such as the Reds and Cardinals.

Optimally, the Indians leave a Lindor trade with a big-league starting outfielder. It’s almost unthinkable that the team has traded Trevor Bauer and Mike Clevinger  without fixing their outfield conundrum.

Obviously, Clint Frazier, who is no stranger to rumors involving his return to Cleveland, is a name to remember. That said, Lindor may not be the Yankees most pressing need this offseason.

1. What’s Shane Bieber’s worth if the Indians seek an extension? This was discussed in a post the other day. With the news of Mike Clevinger requiring Tommy John surgery, it goes to show that their is incentive for pitchers to guaranteed big money before they hit free agency, because you just never know.