Lucroy gets day off as trade rumors intensify

Milwaukee Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy, the subject of increased trade speculation in recent days, is not in the lineup for Thursday's series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Brewers manager Craig Counsell told reporters prior to the afternoon tilt that Thursday was a scheduled day off for Lucroy, who remains a popular trade target for teams looking to the All-Star catcher before Monday's deadline.

Multiple reports over the last 24 hours indicate trade talks involving Lucroy have intensified, with the Texas Rangers, Houston Astros, New York Mets, Cleveland Indians, and Boston Red Sox among the teams believed to be pursuing his services.

Lucroy's trade value has risen dramatically this season on the heels of a disappointing 2015 campaign. The 30-year-old is hitting .300/.361/.486 with 13 home runs and 17 doubles in 93 games while ranking second in OBP and slugging among major-league catchers.

The Brewers are reportedly setting a high asking price for Lucroy, whose contract includes a $5.25-million team option for next season.