Lucroy, Indians move on from near trade

ARLINGTON — After Jonathan Lucroy reached second base in the second inning on Thursday night, Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor said something to the Rangers catcher before patting him on the back. If Cleveland fans thought Lindor had any harsh words for Lucroy, they were wrong.

“He’s cool,” Lindor said on Friday afternoon. “I’ve known his brother and his dad since I was a little kid, because I played against his brother and with his brother when I came to the States. So, it’s always cool when you see a familiar face.”

If it was not clear enough before, it was made clear once again: Cleveland has moved on from the Lucroy situation.

Prior to the Aug. 1 non-waiver Trade Deadline, the Indians reached an agreement with the Brewers that would have brought Lucroy to the Tribe in exchange for catcher Francisco Mejia (ranked No. 4 on MLBPipeline.com’s Top 30 Indians prospects list), shortstop Yu-Cheng Chang (No. 10), outfielder Greg Allen (No. 20) and righty Shawn Armstrong (No. 29). Then, Lucroy famously rejected the deal, exercising his no-trade clause.

Lucroy was subsequently dealt to the Rangers and has thrived since joining the American League West leaders. Meanwhile, the Indians have continued to receive low offensive output from their catchers while awaiting the return of Yan Gomes (separated right shoulder) from the disabled list.

Lucroy’s decision angered Indians fans. Inside the Tribe clubhouse, it is now met with a shrug.

“I think collectively, as an …

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