The Indians are looking to shed payroll this winter and are reportedly open to trading one of their top starting pitchers, and the Dodgers are among the teams that are interested in Cleveland’s assets.
According to Jon Morosi of MLB.com, the Indians and Dodgers have had ongoing trade discussions that are likely centered around Corey Kluber, Trevor Bauer and Carlos Carrasco.
Sources: #Dodgers and #Indians trade talks remain ongoing this week, as @Ken_Rosenthal first reported. If a deal is reached, a Cleveland starter — Kluber, Carrasco or Bauer — likely would go to L.A. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 29, 2018
In addition to the Dodgers, Morosi reports that the Brewers and Braves have also inquired about the Indians’ arms.
#Brewers and #Braves are two more potential trade partners for #Indians if they move a starter. ATL and CLE *are not* in active talks but Braves have power arms (e.g., Wright) to move. Brewers have outfielders (Ray, Broxton), an area of need for CLE. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 29, 2018
Kluber is scheduled to make $17 million in 2019, which sounds like a bargain after he finished third in Cy Young voting this season. The 32-year-old posted a 20-7 record and a 2.89 ERA after going 18-4 record with a 2.25 ERA in 2017. He has club options of $15.5 million and $16 million in 2020 and 2021, so the return for him would have to be very significant.
The Indians are also said to be looking to deal some of their top position players, so it would be a surprise if they don’t make a big move at some point.
