3 Cubs Most Likely to Be Dealt at MLB Trade Deadline

As the 2021 MLB season is days away from hitting the All-Star break, focus on the July 30 MLB Trade Deadline is growing. One team that could be active in trade discussions over the next few weeks happens to be the Chicago Cubs.

After making the playoffs in five of the previous six seasons, the Cubs are in danger of missing this year's postseason after losing nine of their last 10 games. With a 43-45 record, Chicago is 8.0 games back of the final National League Wild Card spot.

The Cubs are already reportedly approaching the deadline as sellers. Here's the three Cubs who are most likely to be dealt at the trade deadline.

Cubs Trade Rumors

1. Anthony Rizzo, 1B

Even though first baseman Anthony Rizzo is a fan favorite, the four-time Gold Glove winner could find himself being moved at the trade deadline. Rizzo is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, so the Cubs would like to get something back for him rather than risk losing him for nothing. Considering how he helped Chicago win a World Series in 2016, there's no doubt that Rizzo would provide a boost for any contending team this year. The 11-year veteran currently has 10 home runs and 33 RBI in 268 at-bats this season while slashing .246/.339/.433. With Rizzo having already been involved in trade rumors earlier this season, there's a distinct chance that he could be moved in the next three weeks.

2. Craig Kimbrel, RHP

Everyone knows the importance of a good bullpen when it comes to the MLB postseason. That's why it should be a no-brainer for contending teams to call the Cubs about veteran closer Craig Kimbrel. The eight-time All-Star is 1-2 with a 0.57 ERA in 31.2 innings pitched this season while racking up 20 saves. Kimbrel also has the winning pedigree that other teams look for, having won the World Series with the Boston Red Sox in 2018. While he could be a free agent this offseason, Kimbrel has a $16 million team option for 2022, allowing any potential suitors to bring him back for next season if they're impressed enough.

3. Kris Bryant, OF/IF

Another big Chicago name that could be on the move by the deadline is Kris Bryant. Despite him being in the midst of another All-Star campaign, the 2016 NL MVP will also be a free agent this offseason. Considering how the Cubs could be rebuilding going forward, it'd be understandable if Bryant — who's turning 30 in January — doesn't want to stick around for that. After an underwhelming performance in 2020, Bryant has 16 homers and 43 RBI on the season with a .498 slugging percentage. He can also play any outfield position, as well as first and third base, so he'd immediately add versatility to any team acquiring him. With how talented of a player Bryant is, the Cubs would likely get back a decent-sized return that could help them in a potential rebuild.

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