1. Kris Bryant
Here we go with the most exciting option of all. The Chicago Cubs seem poised to trade Kris Bryant sooner than later and the A’s stand out as a team that may want to land him in a blockbuster rental situation.
Of course, any Bryant deal is going to require a nice haul of prospects in return. That is for the front office to figure out, but there is no denying Bryant in Oakland would be an exciting fit as well as a great place for him to audition for his next contract.
The third baseman would show up on a team that already has Matt Chapman at the position. However, Bryant has spent time at all three outfield spots this season so he can play just about anywhere, including first base as well.
This would be a scenario where both sides know the deal. Bryant would help the A’s compete for a title in 2021 and be on his way immediately following the season. And if the team does reach the mountaintop, he is a legend in Oakland forever.
Bryant made his fourth-career All-Star Game in 2021 and currently owns an .835 OPS with 16 home runs on the year. Whenever a player of his caliber is available as a rental, any and every contender should make a call.