The Cleveland Indians made a "sincere and earnest effort" to sign Francisco Lindor to a long-term contract before deciding this week to suspend talks, says Chris Antonetti.

The president of baseball operations said the sides worked for months and tried "different and creative concepts" to strike a deal, but ultimately decided not to continue negotiations with Opening Day getting closer.

Lindor will make $17.5 million this year and can become a free agent after the 2021 season.

"I'm really appreciative of the effort Francisco and his representatives and our ownership put into the process of trying to find alignment," Antonetti said.