Here’s What a Dodgers-Indians Trade for Francisco Lindor Would Look Like Right Now

The Cleveland Indians might have a better shot at taking home the 2020 AL Central title in this shortened season, but that likely won't do much to change their desire to trade superstar infielder Francisco Lindor in the name of cutting costs.

The Indians cited money as the main reason they were unable to sign Lindor to a long-term extension up until this point, and the pandemic has only given Cleveland more justification in that regard given the tenuous financial situation.

The pandemic and financial situation might make it more difficult for Cleveland to pull off a deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, but they should keep trying to send Lindor to LA if they want to maximize value.

Dodgers fans might not want to hear this, but Corey Seager needs to go to Cleveland in a Lindor trade. The Indians would get an upper-tier replacement for Lindor, while moving him would eliminate LA's infield logjam.

The Dodgers have more than enough prospects they can part with, and their stockpile of right-handed pitching makes Josiah Gray, who owns an explosive fastball, nasty slider, and 2.37 minor league ERA, a bit expendable. Throw in 2019's 31st overall pick, second baseman Michael Busch, and Cleveland will have a pretty solid return.

Trading away a star like Lindor would be a tough pill to swallow for Indians fans, but getting an elite replacement in Seager along with a future frontline ace in Gray is a more than adequate return.