Terry Francona on Lindor trade rumors: 99.9 percent of them were false

CLEVELAND, OH — Indians President Chris Antonetti made it clear that he expects Francisco Lindor to remain with the club for the 2020 season and he isn’t alone.

Manager Terry Francona shot down the trade chatter that has circled around the four-time All-Star this offseason.

“We can’t control the rumors. I would say from this winter 99.9 (percent) were false,” Francona said on MLB Network Radio. “Just because a team called you and did their due diligence doesn’t mean there’s a 50-50 chance this guys going to be traded.”

Lindor, 26, is under team control for two more seasons. He’s projected to make $16 million in 2020, which makes him one of the best values in baseball.

‘They’re naturally going to come see if they can get a steal or get one of the best players in the game,” Francona said. “I don’t blame them. That doesn’t mean we’re going to say yes.”

Terry Francona: Don't believe the Francisco Lindor trade buzz. #Indians pic.twitter.com/kwxbWJkNRF

The Reds and the Dodgers have both expressed interest in the Indians' star shortstop. The Indians are willing to trade the Lindor, but their asking price is “sky-high” according to multiple sources. 

In the last three seasons, Lindor has batted .279 (.855 OPS) and is averaging 34 home runs, 85 RBI and 21 stolen bases.