This Dodgers-Cubs Trade for Kris Bryant Could Actually Work
By Parker White
Just like Mookie Betts and Francisco Lindor, Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant could be on the trade block this winter. He's a free agent in 2022 and with Scott Boras as his agent, it's highly unlikely he'll sign an extension.
So, for the Cubs, who are in a little bit of transition stage, they may have to face the facts and try to figure out a trade for the former NL MVP.
If that does happen, the Los Angeles Dodgers and their loaded farm system should come in full force to make Bryant to LA a reality.
Do you want the Cubs to trade Kris Bryant? Really? @PJ_Mooney on the beginning of an important winter: https://t.co/K7HUp6MtZK
— jon greenberg (@jon_greenberg) November 11, 2019
The Dodgers have a very good player in Justin Turner at the hot corner, but he's been public about his willingness to change positions, which would almost certainly be the case if the team acquired a player of Bryant's caliber.
Headlining a Bryant deal would be right-hander Dustin May, who made his debut last year and showed flashes of being a top-flight starter with his electric stuff.
Other than the Dodgers, what team has the depth to trade for Lindor, Betts or Bryant?? What I mean is, I assume none of those teams want to tear it down, so you need mlb ready players to trade. Tough to have that kinda depth imo.
— BeefLoaf (@MrDelicious13) November 12, 2019
Unless the Cubs decide to keep Willson Contreras, who has been rumored to be available in trade this offseason, they'll need a replacement. Unlike most organizations, the Dodgers actually have some talent at catcher, including 21-year-old Keibert Ruiz. Pair him with May and you have the start of a blockbuster deal.
To put this deal over the top, infield prospect Jeter Downs has to be included. He's still a year or two away, but he can do a little bit of everything on the diamond and has cracked the Top 100 prospects list. Add a couple more lower level prospects and it'll be hard for the Cubs to turn it down, even for someone like Bryant.
It's understandable that Cubs fans want to keep Bryant, but the best move for the future of the franchise may be to offload him this winter if they are presented with a package this enticing.