Chicago Cubs: 5 trade packages that make the most sense

Whit Merrifield in exchange for Adbert Alzolay and Ian Happ.

"Rumors have been swirling about the Chicago Cubs having an interest in Royals second baseman, Whit Merrifield. And for good reason as they have had a revolving door at the position this season. Addison Russell, Daniel Descalso, Ben Zobrist, David Bote, and Robel Garcia have all seen time at second this season. Russell and Descalso have left a lot to be desired, Zobrist has been away from the team since early May, Bote has committed 3 errors at the position this season, and it’s far too early to make a determination on Garcia. That being said, Merrifield has been the primary leadoff hitter for the Royals this season and can play first base and all three outfield positions in addition to his natural position at second. He’s slashed 0.306/0.355/0.495 with 11 home runs, 25 doubles, and 44 RBI’s. He makes a lot of sense for the Cubs because he can play the outfield as well if they feel that Garcia can handle the everyday second base gig. He’s under contract through the 2022 season with a club option for 2023, which would give the Cubs a good amount of time to figure out the position long-term. In return, I have the Cubs sending top pitching prospect Adbert Alzolay and outfielder Ian Happ going to the Royals. Alzolay made two starts (3 appearances) for the Cubs before the All-Star. His first outing was a really solid performance but got roughed up in his second outing. He has the stuff to be a number one pitcher for a team despite his second start. Ian Happ has been in the minors working on his timing and is still just 24 years old. Billy Hamilton is under contract through this season with a $7.5 million club option for next season. He’s batting just 0.217 on the season and I could see the Royals declining his 2020 option. Happ is still young enough that, if he can get things figured out, he can be a really solid player. Over his last 10 games in Triple-A, Happ is batting 0.325 with 2 home runs and 7 RBI’s."

Things have changed since I wrote this trade piece. Adbert Alzolay was pulled in his start on Wednesday evening and may miss some significant time with bicep tightness. It’s better than Tommy John surgery, but obviously the Royals will not be wanting him. Instead, I have both Kyle Schwarber and Ian Happ going to the Royals in exchange for the Royals superstar leadoff man, Whit Merrifield.