Even if the Indians can't extend CC Sabathia before the 2008 season starts, they won't trade him as long as they're in contention, says Mark Shapiro:
Shapiro believes trading Sabathia would hurt the Indians' chances of repeating as AL Central champs.
Setting aside the specific contract proposals (see here for that discussion), the Indians' best chance to make the playoffs next season is with Sabathia pitching every fifth day. Even if they know they have little chance of keeping him past this season, they should not forgo competing in 2008. There is no pressing need to retool the roster; if Sabathia does leave, they'll be worse off, but still a competitive club. And they'd still have the balance of the season to work out something with Sabathia.