Indians president expects Lindor to be with team in 2020

Despite persistent chatter to the contrary, Cleveland Indians president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti doesn't anticipate All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor will be traded this offseason.

"My expectation is Frankie will be the shortstop Opening Day next year," Antonetti told reporters at the GM meetings Tuesday, according to Jon Heyman of MLB Network.

Lindor's future in Cleveland has been the subject of much speculation during the offseason's early stages. He's one of several high-profile young stars thought to be on the trading block ahead of what's expected to be a wild winter. It was reported Monday some MLB executives believe at least one of Lindor, Mookie Betts, and Kris Bryant will be dealt before spring.

Although Antonetti brushed the subject of a trade aside Tuesday, Heyman reports the Indians have received plenty of phone calls about Lindor's availability.

It's not known which teams might have inquired about Lindor, but one possible suitor could be the Los Angeles Dodgers. It was reported in October that L.A. is expected to push hard for a Lindor trade this winter following a disappointing finish in the playoffs.

Lindor slashed .284/.335/.518 with 32 home runs, 40 doubles, 22 steals, and 74 RBIs for the Indians this past season, ranking sixth at his position with 4.4 WAR. Despite playing only 143 games due to an early-season injury, Lindor still finished with 650 plate appearances for the fourth straight season.

The 25-year-old is projected by MLB Trade Rumors to earn $16.7 million through arbitration in 2020.