Time is Now for Cubs to Pounce on Wild 3rd Base Market and Trade Kris Bryant
By Jerry Trotta
On Wednesday night, the first domino of MLB's rich third baseman market fell as Anthony Rendon agreed to a massive seven-year, $245 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels.
That groundbreaking news coupled with Josh Donaldson's inevitable signing will likely see the third base market take off, and leads us to the conclusion that the Chicago Cubs must orchestrate a deal for Kris Bryant, a player they are reported to be shopping this winter.
Seriously, if not now, when?
Jesse Rogers: Why a Cubs-Braves Kris Bryant trade makes sense now that Rendon has signed https://t.co/0agX2sPcDi
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) December 12, 2019
Once Donaldson finds a new home, it's reasonable to think that Bryant trade talks will instantly escalate.
The former NL MVP will assume the mantle as the league's most coveted third baseman and several teams -- the Dodgers, Nationals, Braves, and Phillies, to name a few -- are all in the market for one.
What it comes down to is the likelihood of all teams willing to talk a trade for Bryant being ready to win now. Therefore, they wouldn't be too reluctant to cough up top prospects, which Chicago would undoubtedly be seeking in return.
With Anthony Rendon landing with the Angels, Kris Bryant's potential trade market becomes clearer.https://t.co/TzjmvwhY9m
— Cubs Talk (@NBCSCubs) December 12, 2019
It goes without saying that Theo Epstein is one of the most distinguished GM's in the game. We like to think that he's aware of the opportunity that's been presented to him.
The time is now for him to make his move.