3 Players Cubs Should Target at the Trade Deadline if They're Contending and Going for it All

The Chicago Cubs have a monumental season ahead in 2020. The team is bound to trade away some top talent at some point in the next two years, and the process could get started at the trade deadline this season, pending the type of slow start that nobody wants to go through.

However, the team could also go all-in and chase another World Series in 2020. Acquiring a few players in particular at the deadline could help the Cubs' chances of winning it all once again. if things break right.

3. Brad Hand

The Chicago Cubs could trade for Cleveland Indians reliever Brad Hand. / Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

Brad Hand is expected to be the best reliever for the Cleveland Indians in 2020. But he is set to make $7 million, and has a $10 million club option in 2021. The team has continued to cut payroll over the past few years, and either a slow start, or young relievers outshining Hand, could get him traded. If they acquired Hand, the Cubs would get someone who can close games if Craig Kimbrel continues to struggle. Hand had 34 saves and a 3.30 ERA in 2019.

2. Alex Wood

The Chicago Cubs could gain depth with Alex Wood. / Norm Hall/Getty Images

The Los Angeles Dodgers have enough depth make an Alex Wood trade possible. The Cubs could gain a fourth or fifth starter in the process. Wood is only making $4 million this year and is a free agent after the season. Such a trade could also allow the Cubs to dump salary, as the Dodgers are always looking to take on the best players, regardless of money. Wood has a career ERA of 3.40 and was an All-Star in 2017.

1. Trevor Bauer

The Chicago Cubs could get Trevor Bauer as a rental. / Norm Hall/Getty Images

Trevor Bauer has made it clear he only wants to sign one-year deals. That is perfect for the Cubs, if he were to join the team. A slow start for the Cincinnati Reds would put Bauer on the trade block, especially considering he wants to hit the open market after the season. The veteran has postseason experience, and is capable of going 190-200 innings if he avoids freak injuries or accidents. He logged 213 innings in 2019 and finished with a 4.48 ERA.