Francisco Lindor says he still wants to sign a long-term extension with the Indians but that it won’t happen in the near future.
In a story published by The Athletic on Monday, the four-time All-Star shortstop said the sides have suspended talks with Opening Day a little more than two weeks away.
“We had good conversations,” Lindor told The Athletic. “We couldn’t come up with an agreement. So we put that aside and let’s focus on winning.”
Lindor, 26, avoided arbitration this offseason, signing a one-year, $17.5 million deal — a $7 million bump over what he made in 2019. He won’t be a free agent until after the 2021 season.
Lindor didn’t detail what type of deal he’s looking for from Cleveland but did tell The Athletic that he is seeking more than the nine-year, $215 million contract Christian Yelich signed with the Brewers last week.
“My agent knows my value, I know my value. But that’s something that’s a little more private,” Lindor told The Athletic. “But I do know what’s fair for both sides. I’m very aware. I’ve studied it.”
His agent, David Meter, did not immediately respond to a message from The Associated Press.
The Indians have been up front about their eagerness to sign the switch-hitting Lindor to a long-term deal. He has developed into one of baseball’s brightest young stars and best all-around players. The small-market team, however, may never be able to reach a dollar figure that will satisfy Lindor.
The popular Puerto Rico native has said he wants to stay in Cleveland to help the Indians win a World Series and he hopes the team will figure out a way financially to keep him. But the reality is that the Indians can’t afford to invest so much money into one player and remain competitive.
Team president Chris Antonetti is expected to address Lindor’s situation on Wednesday at the team’s training complex. The Indians are off Tuesday.
It’s possible the sides could resume talks at some point during the upcoming season. There’s also a chance the Indians could decide to trade Lindor before the July deadline if they don’t start well and fall behind in the AL Central.
When Milwaukee signed Yelich to a nine-year, $215 million contract last week, the deal raised hope among Indians fans that Cleveland could get something similar done with Lindor. However, Lindor’s price appears to be much higher.
A dangerous leadoff hitter because of his speed and power, Lindor batted .284 with 32 homers and 74 RBIs last season. He added 22 steals and won a Gold Glove.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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