Chicago Cubs: 3 under-the-radar Kris Bryant trades to explore

The 2021 MLB trade deadline is less than two weeks away now, with the July 30 date coming up quickly. For the Chicago Cubs, their fans and the clubhouse, this time is a stressful one.

The Cubs may end up tearing apart their core — the same core that led them to a 2016 World Series.

It is a sad reality, but one that fans should have seen coming for a couple of years now. It seems as though the Ricketts haven’t cared much about winning another title after that magical 2016 campaign. Instead, ownership has been content in doing the bare minimum.

It’s clear the Cubs aren’t going to contend anytime soon, so attempting to get a return for guys like Kris Bryant, Javier Baez and Anthony Rizzo makes sense. Next year, all three will be free agents. Bryant, in particular, is maybe the hottest name amongst those three in terms of a possible trade.

Chicago Cubs star Kris Bryant has much more to offer than just third base prowess.

One thing Bryant has been able to offer the Cubs over the years is his versatility in the field. When thinking about possible trades with Bryant, it’s important to look past just his current position at third base.

Being able to play in the outfield, as well, should open up far more trade possibilities for the former NL MVP. Teams may have a need at third base, but other teams currently need help in the outfield. Either one of those types of clubs are excellent candidates for Bryant.

Looking at some of the teams which currently need help in the outfield, we can see three particular landing spots which also make sense for Bryant — outside of a top rumored team like the Mets.

When talking about a deal for Bryant, it’s important to remember that his contract is up after this season. If that wasn’t the case, the Cubs would be looking at an enormous return. Because he’s entering free agency in 2022, Chicago likely wouldn’t get as much as they’d like. Nevertheless, the following three trades make sense.