Five MLB teams have reportedly turned out to be strong candidates to take on Francisco Lindor as the Cleveland Indians try to trade the all-star shortstop this off-season.
According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the New York Mets, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, Toronto Blue Jays and St. Louis Cardinals are the “strongest contenders” to get Lindor off the Indians. The 26-year-old Lindor still has one year of contract worth around $ 21 million Salary arbitration.
It has been reported by multiple outlets that the Indians will likely start trading with Lindor before the 2021 season to clear the pay room, although a deal doesn’t appear to be closed that early in the off-season, according to Morosi. Interested teams are reportedly not all ready to have “serious” trade talks with the Indians, including the Mets, who are changing under new owner Steve Cohen.
On Tuesday, Morosi reported that despite his “strong” relationship with Boston executive Alex Cora, the Red Sox are unlikely to prioritize any deal for Lindor. Lindor, who shares Cora’s hometown of Caguas, Puerto Rico, grew up with Cora and called him “big brother”.
Lindor, a four-time All-Star, faced .258 with 61 goals and eight home runs in the shortened 2020 season.
Stay up to date with the latest MLB news and rumors:
.
