Indians, Athletics discussing Brandon Moss trade

The Indians and Athletics are in serious discussions about a trade that would involve Brandon Moss, according to a report from Paul Hoynes of the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Hoynes notes that Cleveland is "guardedly optimistic" that they will acquire Moss, and that negotiations should conclude on Friday regardless of if the sides come to terms or not.

According to Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle, Oakland is targeting Indians' prospect Joey Wendle in trade talks, though it is believed that they would receive a package of two or three players if they were to send Moss to Cleveland. Reports indicate that the Indians are one of a few teams talking to the A's about Moss, meaning that another team could swoop in with a greater offer on Friday in an effort to get a deal done.

Moss, 31, has the ability to play in the outfield and at first base, so he would be an interesting addition for a team that already carries Michael Brantley, Michael Bourn, David Murphy, Ryan Raburn, Carlos Santana and Nick Swisher on their active roster. Swisher and Bourn have both been involved in trade rumors of their own so far this offseason, so the potential addition of Moss may preclude more deals for Cleveland, or one of them could head to Oakland in the swap.

Moss is the latest Athletic to be mentioned in trade rumors, with names like Jeff Samardzija and Scott Kazmir swirling on the rumor mill less than a week after the shocking trade of Josh Donaldson to the Blue Jays.