Diamondbacks Reportedly 'Exploring' Possible Kris Bryant Trade With the Cubs
By Karl Rasmussen
The Arizona Diamondbacks made a huge splash in free agency when they inked Madison Bumgarner to a five-year, $85 million deal. Bringing in MadBum was a big step forward, but their work may not be done just yet.
The DBacks have reportedly been exploring the idea of trading for Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant, per insider John Gambadoro.
Have heard some rumblings of Dbacks at least exploring a Kris Bryant trade. Could then move Escobar to 2B. Bryant makes 18.6 and is under control for this year and next. Just turned 28 he may be better option than Bradley Jr (1 year control) or Marte, who is 31.
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) January 14, 2020
The Cubs would surely demand a major ransom in exchange for the former NL MVP, and high-ranking prospects will be a must. If the two clubs do advance in trade talks, some names to look out for would include the likes of outfielders Alex Thomas, Kristian Robinson or Corbin Carroll, all of whom rank on MLB Pipeline's list of the top 100 prospects in baseball.
Some possible pitching prospects who could intrigue the Cubs include Jon Duplantier and Levi Kelly.
There are rumblings the #Dbacks have at least explored a trade for Cubs 3B Kris Bryant, @Gambo987 has learned. https://t.co/Puw4Fd3Hbu
— 98.7 Arizona Sports (@AZSports) January 14, 2020
The acquisition of Bryant would be a huge get for this lineup, as he would slot in alongside the likes of Ketel Marte, Eduardo Escobar, the recently-extended David Peralta and offseason acquisition Kole Calhoun.
In 2019, Bryant slashed .282/.382/.521 with 31 home runs and 77 RBI, appearing in 147 games. Keep an eye on Arizona as the offseason trade market heats up.