Cleveland Indians: Finding a trade fit for Jason Kipnis is not easy

If the Cleveland Indians really want to trade Jason Kipnis, they could have trouble finding a good trade partner for the former All-Star second baseman.

Jason Kipnis has been a staple of the Cleveland Indians for years. He’s been a fan-favorite since breaking in back in 2011 and despite some trying times has been one of the best players the club has had over the last few years.

However, an injury-riddled 2017 that saw his production drop has prompted many to speculate the Indians could move him this winter, and there have already been some reports that his name has come up with a few teams, including the New York Mets.

However, despite some teams showing interest, the Indians could have a very difficult time trading Kipnis, especially if they want any value in return.

The biggest problem is identifying what teams would even want Kipnis. That’s not to say Kipnis is bad and no one wants him but he’s 30 and making $13.5 million in 2018 with a total of $30.5 million guaranteed left on his deal through at least 2019 (has a 2020 option).

A healthy Kipnis is absolutely worth that and more but teams could be scared off after 2017. Rebuilding teams aren’t likely to want Kipnis given his age and contract and several contenders already have options for second base.

Once you identify the team that could target Kipnis (and there are a few), trying to find a reasonable return is arguably more tricky. The Indians’ goal for 2018 is to win the World Series. They can’t just dump a guy like Kipnis for prospects who can’t help. Even if they plan on flipping those prospects they would need to flip them for someone at least as good as Kipnis and that’s not easy to do.

That all said, here’s a look at a few teams that the Indians could maybe deal Kipnis to while looking at why they are or aren’t good fits.