The Chicago Cubs are trading All-Star slugger Kris Bryant to the San Francisco Giants, agreeing to a deal right before the MLB trade deadline.
Following Chicago’s collapse this summer, the front office declared it would be sellers in July. After trading Joc Pederson and Anthony Rizzo, the Cubs took another step towards rebuilding by sending Bryant to San Francisco.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan first reported the sides reached agreement, with San Francisco confirming the Bryant trade moments before the 4 PM deadline.
Bryant, a free agent this offseason, is owed the remaining portion of his $19.5 million salary. Under CBA rules, he will not be eligible to receive a qualifying offer since he was traded.
- Kris Bryant stats: .267/.358/.503, 18 home runs, 51 RBIs, 132 wRC+
There is an element of risk with acquiring Bryant. Much of his success came early in 2021, posting a .324/.406/.611 slash line with 12 home runs in the first two months. Since June 1, Bryant’s slash line stands at .191/.296/.362 with a 25.9% strikeout rate, 83 wRC+ and only six home runs in 162 plate appearances.
But this is a four-time All-Star selection, 2016 World Series champion and a former ML MVP. Plus. the trait that most attracted teams to the 29-year-old, his versatility. Bryant has played 92 innings at first base, 195.1 innings at third, 171.1 innings in left field, 83.2 innings roaming center and 209 innings in right field this year alone.
Joining a playoff contender, Bryant will have an opportunity to compete for a World Series ring. Notably, he hasn’t won a playoff game since 2017 and his track record in October (.229/.293/.412, .705 OPS) is concerning.
Ultimately, his talent merits the limited risk in this trade and his addition will have a significant influence on the MLB playoff race.