The MLB trade deadline came and went with a surprising amount of activity that took place. Many executives expected a quiet day due to uncertainties brought on by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but that wasn’t the case.
A flurry of trades transpired on deadline day, including a blockbuster deal that sent former Cleveland Indians ace Mike Clevinger to the San Diego Padres.
The Indians entered the day tied with the Chicago White Sox for first place in the American League Central. They felt Clevinger was expendable, given his falling out with the organization and the emergence of Zach Plesac.
While Clevinger was dealt, the Indians ultimately held on to star shortstop Francisco Lindor, who had also been in trade rumors over the years.
Rival executives believe a Lindor blockbuster is more likely to come to fruition this upcoming offseason and that the Los Angeles Dodgers could be best positioned to acquire him, via Jon Heyman of MLB Network:
Lindor is seen as more likely a winter move. Folks on other teams believe the Dodgers would be favorites, as if their lineup isn’t great enough as is. Cleveland has tried multiple times to extend Lindor but he seeks top dollar (Believed to be Betts range) — not doable for Tribe!
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) August 30, 2020
Prior to trading for Mookie Betts this past February, the Dodgers reportedly were engaged in talks with the Indians to acquire Lindor.
The two teams didn’t get far along in discussions as the Indians insisted on receiving Gavin Lux. L.A. ultimately pivoted to Betts, who has been nothing short of outstanding in his first season with the Dodgers.
Lindor is due to become a free agent at the conclusion of the 2021 season. He reportedly is seeking a monster contract extension in the ballpark of the one Betts signed.
The Dodgers of course have Corey Seager entrenched at shortstop, but there have long been whispers about an eventual move to third base. Seager also is due to become a free agent in 2021.
Dodgers quiet at MLB Trade Deadline
Though the Dodgers were connected to the likes of Clevinger, Lance Lynn and Josh Hader in the hours prior to the trade deadline, they ultimately did not pull the trigger on a blockbuster deal.
The club, however, traded the struggling Ross Stripling to the Toronto Blue Jays for two players to be named later. One of those became prospect Kendall Williams, who was selected by the Blue Jays in the second round of the 2019 Draft.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman had indicated the team was receiving a player who they were extremely high on.
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