Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor appears interested in testing the waters in free agency. Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

Indians SS Francisco Lindor reportedly wants to test free agency

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 5/6/20

Major League Baseball teams in the market for a shortstop may want to take a look at Cleveland Indians star Francisco Lindor ahead of free agency.

Lindor is set to become a free agent after the 2021 season, and although the Indians would like to keep the 26-year-old in the fold for many years to come, he may not feel the same way.

Cleveland reportedly hasn't had any discussions with Lindor as of yet, and it sounds like the four-time All-Star is looking to move on, according to MLB insider Keith Law.

.@keithlaw on @BullandFox on #Indians - Lindor: "What I've actually heard...they would like to pay him, but he won't even entertain contract extension offers. Absolutely his right to do that. They've tried to have those conversations...there just hasn't been a negotiation at all"
— Keith Britton (@KeithBritton86) May 5, 2020

.@keithlaw on @BullandFox more on #Indians - Lindor: "I personally think, knowing him and knowing who his representative is, they just want to go to free agency. My understanding is, the team was willing to talk extension with him and he just said 'I'm going to free agency.'"
— Keith Britton (@KeithBritton86) May 5, 2020

Lindor, similar to Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts, is ready to bet on himself in an attempt to receive a deal for the most money possible instead of signing an extension worth less than what he could get in free agency. It's rather odd, given the fact that salaries may change due to the coronavirus pandemic, but you never know.

The two-time Gold Glover has been solid since breaking on to the scene in 2015. Last season he averaged .284 at the plate with 74 RBI and 32 home runs and a five wins above replacement score. He's also one of the best shortstops in the field, and has found continued success with the Indians over the years.

If he does elect for free agency at the end of the season, Lindor could be pursued by teams like the Milwaukee Brewers, Seattle Mariners and Detroit Tigers. Really any team could use his services, but some more than others.

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