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4 Teams That Should Double Down on Kris Bryant Trade Talks After He Lost Service Time Grievance

By Steven Kubitza

Chicago Cubs star Kris Bryant is under team control for two more seasons after losing his grievance.
Chicago Cubs star Kris Bryant is under team control for two more seasons after losing his grievance. / Nuccio DiNuzzo/Getty Images

Kris Bryant had a legitimate grievance against the Chicago Cubs regarding his service time. An arbitrator has officially ruled that Bryant cannot hit free agency until after the 2021 season and that is good news for the Cubs. Bryant's trade value has gone up, and several teams should be making offers right away for the 2016 NL MVP.

4. Washington Nationals

The Nationals can replace Anthony Rendon with Kris Bryant.
The Nationals can replace Anthony Rendon with Kris Bryant. / Dylan Buell/Getty Images

The Nationals are looking to replace Anthony Rendon at third base which makes Bryant an ideal option. With two years remaining on his deal, KB could end up manning the hot corner in Washington for the remainder of his contract, which would keep the Nats competitive during that span. Washington would likely have to part with some key components of its farm system, but that shouldn't be a deterrent to land a player with Bryant's credentials.

3. Los Angeles Dodgers

Kris Bryant could be a surprise addition for the Dodgers this offseason.
Kris Bryant could be a surprise addition for the Dodgers this offseason. / Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

The Dodgers have been oddly quiet this offseason in terms of actual moves. The team has been linked to both Mookie Betts and Francisco Lindor in trade rumors but nothing has materialized, and Bryant potentially could be another target. The Dodgers could offer him a long-term extension right away, and there's reason to believe he'd be interested in sticking around in LA. Justin Turner has expressed a willingness to shift his position, so the Dodgers, who boast one of baseball's most stacked farm systems, should be at the forefront of any Bryant trade talks.

2. Atlanta Braves

Kris Bryant could fill the void left behind by Josh Donaldson in Atlanta.
Kris Bryant could fill the void left behind by Josh Donaldson in Atlanta. / Jon Durr/Getty Images

The Braves lost Josh Donaldson in free agency and adding Bryant would make the team even better than it was in 2019. Atlanta seems to be one player away from being true championship contenders and Bryant would complete a star-studded infield alongside Freddie Freeman, Ozzie Albies, and Dansby Swanson. The Braves also have an impeccable farm system, so the assets are in place to work out a deal.

1. Texas Rangers

Kris Bryant could be a long-term piece with the Texas Rangers.
Kris Bryant could be a long-term piece with the Texas Rangers. / Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

The Rangers were linked to Anthony Rendon but ended up settling for veteran slugger Todd Frazier, a significant downgrade. The team could try to add a long-term option in Kris Bryant and make him the centerpiece of the franchise. He could DH, play the outfield, or Frazier could do the same in order to get both in the lineup. Bryant playing in Arlington makes a ton of sense, and the Rangers will surely be in play for the 28-year-old's services.