Kris Bryant Finally Responds to Service Time Grievance and Contract Extension Talks With Cubs
By Thomas Carannante
The Chicago Cubs and Kris Bryant haven't exactly had a fruitful relationship over the past two years. Trade rumors and lack of substance surrounding contract extension talks have mainly taken centerstage, which is pretty much the last thing anyone wants when it comes to a franchise-caliber player.
But that didn't even embody all of the drama. The famed service time grievance Bryant and the MLBPA filed against the Cubs dragged on for much of the offseason and the panel ruled against Bryant, giving Chicago another year of control over the All-Star slugger. Here's what the 28-year-old had to say about all of it:
Bryant thought grievance would last two weeks, felt like it went on “forever.” Stressed “no hard feelings toward Cubs” but remains firm in standing for what he believes in.
— Mark Gonzales (@MDGonzales) February 15, 2020
At the very least, Bryant coming out and saying there are no hard feelings should begin to put this whole situation in the rearview, but it's nonetheless still disheartening for fans that this has to be a topic of discussion entering Spring Training.
The Cubbies are looking to right the ship with new manager David Ross, not be shrouded in controversy.
Bryant: There are definitely no hard feelings on either side about the grievance process. He was just trying to do the right thing for the players, and see the process through to the end. He respects the org for all that they've done for him and his family.
— Bleacher Nation (@BleacherNation) February 15, 2020
And as for the rumblings about contract extension talks between the Cubs and Bryant, the third baseman weighed in on all of that supposed conjecture too.
Bryant: Disappointed that the rationale for the rumors is that "well, he's never gonna sign an extension." Where is that coming from, he wonders. He loves Chicago and the Cubs.
— Bleacher Nation (@BleacherNation) February 15, 2020
Denies he ever turned down an extension for "well north" of $200 million.
More somewhat good news! Bryant loves the Cubs and would certainly stay in Chicago. The bad news? Apparently the team hasn't even begun extension talks with him if he's saying he never turned down a previously reported offer.
We know there are some restrictions the front office has imposed regarding the payroll, but come on, this is one of the best players in baseball. If Bryant wants to stay, start the negotiations as soon as possible and plan around the financial issues as efficiently as possible.