It starts with Javier Baez and Kris Bryant
At this point, any offseason plans for the Chicago Cubs seem to be tentative. The only definitive moves made by Hoyer were not tendering contracts to outfielders Kyle Schwarber and Albert Almora. The Cubs President of Baseball Operations did, however, express a willingness to trade “any veteran” as the next couple of months transpire.
It seems very likely that Chicago deals either Baez or Bryant sometime between now and next July. Ownership would be foolish to invest in both sluggers for the long-term; therefore, they might as well see what can be gained by a trade.
The Cubs tendered contracts to Baez and Bryant for the 2021 season, which means their salaries would factor into trade negotiations. If the Cubs are willing to consume one or both players’ salaries, then they’ll have more command over trade packages. Conversely, a desire to transfer their salary burdens to an acquiring team would cost them negotiating power.
Chicago could wait until the July 31st trade deadline to complete a deal. This way Baez and Bryant earn their paychecks while still wearing Chicago Cubs uniforms. Each player could gain trade value if amidst impressive seasons. That said, they could also lose value if their play is lackluster.
Every scenario is a gamble for Jed Hoyer. Unless fortune-telling is in his repertoire, he’ll have to trust his instincts and not look back when it comes to his handlings of two of the most impactful players the franchise has possessed in decades.