MLB Trade Rumors: Cubs Close To Sealing Deal For Bryant – Report

Kris Bryant is one of the top names in the MLB trade rumor mill, but nothing has gone down. However, that could all change in the coming days with “industry chatter” claiming that the three-time All-Star will be dealt away soon, a report says.

However, it may not only be the 29-year-old who is leaving Chicago. There are murmurs as well that Willson Contreras is on his way out. MLB Network insider Jon Heyman tweeted that the Cubs "continue to listen to offers for" both Contreras and Bryant.

Andy Martino of SNY.tv reported that there's "industry chatter" the Cubs will trade Bryant "as soon as this weekend." International Business Times could not independently verify the information.

One team that has been linked to Bryant but may be out of the race is the New York Mets. NBC Sports reported that the Cubs and the Mets held dialogues about the third baseman, but this happened weeks ago. Also worth noting is that these discussions were held before the Mets acquired Francisco Lindor.

Factoring in the financial side of things, the Mets may no longer be pursuing the one-time MLB champion. Martino, citing unnamed league sources, reported that "the Mets and Cubs have not spoken in several weeks." But then again, new club owner Steve Cohen vowed to increase team spending after acquiring the franchise last November from the Wilpon and Katz families.

However, Martino also said that other teams are pursuing Bryant more aggressively. These could be the Braves, Dodgers and Blue Jays, per NBC Sports.

Until a deal is signed, Bryant remains under the control of the Cubs next season. He is projected to make roughly $20 million in arbitration, a huge fee that interested MLB teams need to consider.

As for Contreras, he is not short of suitors as well. Heyman said that a plausible landing spot for Contreras could be the Los Angeles Angels. A reason behind this is the Joe Maddon link, per MLB Network insider Ken Rosenthal, but Heyman emphasized that "nothing more concrete" is known at the moment.

The Philadelphia Phillies could be considering him, especially if they are unable to re-sign J.T. Realmuto. NBC Sports suggested that the 28-year-old could be a good backup plan for the Phillies if a deal can be agreed upon.

Considering Contreras is one of the Cubs' good players at the catcher position, it may take a lot to convince Chicago to agree to a deal. Hence, it all boils down to what players and assets the Angels, Phillies or any other team would be willing to offer.