The Argument Against the Braves Trading for Francisco Lindor

Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor figures to be the subject of trade talks once the 2020 regular season gets underway. The 26-year-old stud is set to become a free agent in two years and the Indians, despite what they tell the media, either don't have the resources or don't want to give him the lucrative extension he deserves.

The Atlanta Braves have been linked with Lindor in the past, and it's reasonable to assume that they will feature in the sweepstakes once baseball resumes.

However, trading for the four-time All-Star, as good as he is, wouldn't be a smart move for the reigning NL East champs.

Trading for Lindor would come with great risk considering he could leave in free agency after the 2021 campaign. If the Braves weren't willing to commit a future to him, unloading assets -- and Cleveland would command a haul -- would almost be pointless. Any trade for a superstar of the former No. 8 overall pick's caliber should come with the assurance that he'd stick around. That's just not available.

Atlanta has one of MLB's richest farm systems. Parting ways with a handful of top prospects for less than two full seasons of production just isn't smart business. Lindor's unwillingness to negotiate an extension with the Indians proves that he's set his sights on hitting the open market, where his maximum value will be realized.

The Braves should keep the faith in Dansby Swanson, who made significant strides in Year 4 last season. Lindor's evident lack of interest to sign an extension with any potential buyer should make the Braves second guess their interest in the Puerto Rico native.