Cleveland Indians: Francisco Lindor trade packages for the AL West

A’s go all in for 2021

If the Oakland A’s made a move for Francisco Lindor it would be a one-year rental with the hopes of finally capturing a World Series. Oakland doesn’t have the money to pay Lindor long-term, but given the layout of their roster, this year might be the sweet spot to try for something special.

Matt Olson and Matt Chapman are both entering their first years of arbitration, which are normally the cheapest, meaning that it will only be a matter of time before the A’s have to make a decision with those players. Meanwhile, they have young pitching in A.J. Puk, Jesus Luzardo and others who will be ready to provide them with a strong rotation.

The missing piece for Oakland could be a playmaker like Lindor. If the A’s decide to go all in before they have to pay up, this would be the year to do it. However, a trade with the Cleveland Indians could send away some of their future pieces, but not many.

Sheldon Neuse would be the main return for Cleveland here, who would receive less given the one-year rental part. Debuting in 2019, Neuse played in 61 games for Oakland and slashed .250/.295/.304 with three doubles and seven RBI. Playing the left side of the infield, Neuse could become the Indians’ shortstop.

The second player in the deal could be any of the A’s seemingly countless outfielders on their Top 30 prospect list. In this case, the Indians receive Buddy Reed.