5 trade destinations for Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor

3. St. Louis Cardinals

A lack of fans in stadiums this past season, and the resulting loss in gate and concession revenue, is set to hurt the Cardinals more than a lot of teams. Some tough decisions are coming, and they quickly declined Kolten Wong’s option for 2021. Franchise mainstays Yadier Molina and Adam Wainwright are free agents, and they could also be gone.

That being said, there is an angle where the Cardinals could pursue a deal for Lindor and actually get him. Incumbent shortstop Paul DeJong is a solid shortstop, and he’s under contract through at least 2023 (with options for 2024 and 2025). He could shift to second base to replace Wong now, and accommodate the addition of Lindor. DeJong could also be sent to Cleveland for Lindor, as the affordable team control he has left would surely appeal to the budget-conscious Indians.

The Cardinals will probably draw a line in trade talks at top prospect third baseman Nolan Gorman, and Molina’s possible successor behind the plate, Ivan Herrera, too. I assume Matthew Liberatore is similarly a nonstarter as the primary return in what has now become the Randy Arozarena trade with Tampa Bay.

National League teams could take the lead for Lindor, as the Indians think about not having to see him regularly. The Cardinals should be readying their best offer.