Cleveland Indians: Francisco Lindor trade possibilities to the AL Central

White Sox shake up middle infield

With Tim Anderson currently on the roster, the Chicago White Sox have little need for Francisco Lindor. However, the intrigue of having Lindor paired with rising star Nick Madrigal could be enough for the White Sox to at least make an offer to the Cleveland Indians.

Anderson and Lindor are actually very similar players. They are the same age, but the difference comes from their strengths. Lindor is a very balanced player with his fielding ability as his best attribute, but hitting isn’t far behind.

As for Anderson, his best strength comes at the plate, batting .335 during the 2019 season and winning the batting title. The trade would essentially upgrade the White Sox’s defense while sustaining the other areas.

For the Indians, this offer is a draw because they wouldn’t lose much transitioning from Lindor to Anderson, but would be able to save money. Anderson is set to make just $7.25 million in 2021, $9.5 in 2022 and then has club options for 2023 and 2024.

Additionally, the Indians would add outfield prospect Blake Rutherford. At 23-years old, Rutherford would add to the outfield prospects in Cleveland’s system. He’s currently the No. 13 prospect in the White Sox’s system and was the New York Yankees’ first round pick in the 2016 MLB Draft, going 18th overall.