Kris Bryant Trade Risks
By Mark Powell
Kris Bryant's name has been buzzing with trade rumors for the past several weeks, with the Cubs reportedly waiting to take advantage of a wild third base market.
Once Josh Donaldson signs, expect the Cubs to entertain even more calls on their superstar at the hot corner. However, despite Bryant's prowess as one of the most exciting young players in the game, acquiring him does come with some risk.
ESPN’s Jesse Rogers has a compelling prediction for the #Cubs winter meetings:
— Cubs Live (@Cubs_Live) December 9, 2019
“The Cubs will trade Kris Bryant to the Braves for Max Fried and top prospects.”
Here is a two minute video of 25 year old Max Fried striking out batters with his curveball. pic.twitter.com/ca4MlKVRDQ
Cubs Demanding Too Much
The free agent market isn't doing potential trade partners for Bryant any favors. As previously mentioned, once Donaldson signs all hell will break loose, with the Braves/Nations and likely others looking to secure the former MVP. That asking price is likely to include controllable, MLB-level talent (or close to it) and prospects.
Kris Bryant wants to be a Cub. He wants an extension that guarantees him stability with $ and a place to stay for years to come, especially with a baby on the way. Previous extension was below the market value, he isn’t stupid. He knows third basemen value. Make it happen Tom. pic.twitter.com/U4qPxBxa6H
— Cubs Zone ™️ (@CubsZone) December 10, 2019
Kris Bryant Arbitration and Contract
Bryant's service time grievance with the Cubs is a national story, and one that could increase his salary not just this season, but give him the flexibility needed to hit free agency a year sooner.
While that's great for Bryant, part of the appeal is that he's under team control through 2022. If that's not the case, his value could go down considerably AFTER he's acquired by a contending team.
Kris Bryant attended the arbitration hearing this week in New York. What his service-time grievance means for the Cubs, the union and the rest of Major League Baseball: https://t.co/xRf1mdTlnn
— Patrick Mooney (@PJ_Mooney) October 26, 2019
Bryant is an all-world talent at the hot corner and is worth mortgaging part of your future for, especially since he's still just 27 years of age. But as is the case with most trades, the reward must outweigh the risk.