Debating if the Red Sox should trade for shortstop Francisco Lindor.
The Boston Red Sox have plenty of items on their wish list but shortstop isn’t one of them. That’s why it’s no surprise when MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reports that trading for Francisco Lindor isn’t among their priorities this offseason.
Sources: #RedSox won't prioritize a Francisco Lindor trade this offseason, despite the strong Lindor-Alex Cora relationship. Front office expects to allocate resources to pitching; the Boston pitching staff was the worst in #MLB this year, per @fangraphs WAR. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 10, 2020
Lindor is the prize of the trade market this winter. The four-time All-Star has a pair of Silver Sluggers and Gold Gloves on his mantle, in addition to a Platinum Glove. He can hit for average with a respectable .285 mark for his career. Prior to this year’s shortened campaign, Lindor strung together three consecutive seasons with over 30 home runs and he topped 20 stolen bases twice. He’s a five-tool talent that any team would be fortunate to have – if they can afford him.
Rumors tying Lindor to Boston might be grasping at straws. The Cleveland Indians have made it clear that their star shortstop is very much available since they have no intention of paying him the contract he deserves when he hits free agency after next season. Large markets such as Boston are always viable destinations when players of this caliber are available and the Red Sox could be looking to make a splash in the wake of a disappointing season.
Lindor also has a strong relationship with Alex Cora dating back to their time together with the Puerto Rican team in the World Baseball Classic. Speculation that Cora could be the key to luring Lindor began the moment that the Red Sox rehired him as manager.
While these factors make dealing for Lindor appealing, the list of reasons why a trade is unlikely is even longer.