Indians President’s Latest Comments Suggest Francisco Lindor Won’t Be Around Long Term

The Cleveland Indians seemed close to trading franchise player Francisco Lindor this offseason, but they never pulled the trigger on a deal.

While the fact that the Indians even thought about trading the superstar shortstop is bad enough, Indians president Chris Antonetti claims that there is a legitimate and ever-increasing chance they do not bring Lindor back, citing the economics of playing in a small market.

If you don't spend on Lindor, who will you ever spend on?

Lindor was known for his speed, defense, and contact as a prospect, but he has quickly become one of the league's biggest power threats. Lindor has picked up at least 170 hits, 40 doubles, and 32 home runs in each of the last three seasons.

Lindor is not angling for a departure either, as he claims that he has no reason to leave the Indians and that he loves the city of Cleveland.

Lindor is one of the best players in all of baseball, and he has expressed his desire to stay in Cleveland, which is not and will likely never be a marquee destination for free agents at any point.

Money talks, and it doesn't seem as if the Tribe are prepared to fork enough over to retain the franchise cornerstone.