This Yankees-Cubs Trade Involving Kyle Schwarber Could Actually Work

Before we dive deeper into this, it's important to note MLB insider Ken Rosenthal explicitly made it known trade talks between the New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs involving Kyle Schwarber have NO traction. But, fans can dream, right?

While Schwarber has delivered Cubs fans so many memorable moments, this team is currently trying to trim payroll and we can't help but think the slugger is among the players Theo Epstein is looking to offload. While Schwarber is still under team control, he's projected to make $8 million in his second year of arbitration eligibility in 2020, and the front office can expect that number to only increase in 2021 assuming he continues mashing.

And let's face it. Schwarber is best suited for an AL team. Sure, his defense in left field has improved over the years, but he's still somewhat of a liability out there and should probably be a full-time DH and part-time position player. His lefty bat in Yankee Stadium is perhaps one of the best fits we can imagine.

The good news is that these two match up well in a trade whether the reports are positive or not. The Cubs need to improve their farm system and want to shed payroll while the Yankees have a surplus of top prospects and are looking to win now.

Schwarber carries more value than ever after his career year in the Windy City, during which he belted a career-high 38 homers, but the Yankees can fulfill the Cubs' wishes. With MLB talent like Clint Frazier and Miguel Andujar likely available, coupled with a plethora of pitching prospect talent, New York can easily make this a reality.

Hypothetical Cubs-Yankees Kyle Schwarber Trade

Yankees Get: Kyle Schwarber

Cubs Get: Clint Frazier/Miguel Andjuar and pitching prospect Albert Abreu

It all depends what the Cubs are looking for. Do they want a young talent like Frazier they can develop in the outfield who can immediately sub in for Schwarber, or do they want Kris Bryant insurance at the hot corner with Miguel Andujar? The inclusion of pitching prospect Albert Abreu is a must considering the Cubs' need in that department.

Frazier is a defensive liability, but he's at least young and athletic enough to continue to improve upon his shortcomings. Andujar also isn't entirely known for his glove, but he'd help provide an offensive spark in the event Bryant is dealt.

There are obviously pros and cons here, but if the Cubs are truly looking to move Schwarber, the Yankees are probably their best trade partner.