The Cubs’ signing of Craig Kimbrel last month may have crossed one item off their trade deadline to-do list, but the NL Central division leaders aren’t necessarily sitting back. Manager Joe Maddon spoke openly over the weekend about the manner in which the team is missing the “consistent” and “professional” at-bats brought to the table by Ben Zobrist (link via Tom Musnick of the Chicago Sun-Times), and Bruce Levine of CBS Chicago/670 The Score reports that the Cubs are in the market for a veteran hitter to whom they can entrust leadoff duties.
Levine understandably pegs Kansas City’s Whit Merrifield as the ideal fit for the Cubs’ need but adds that the Royals have placed an enormous price on the 30-year-old, who signed an eminently affordable four-year, $16.25MM extension this past winter. The Kansas City front office would seek as many as three controllable, big-league-ready players in any trade involving Merrifield, per Levine. It stands to reason that virtually any contending team in baseball would want to get its hand on Merrifield, who is hitting .309/.361/.500 and vying for a second consecutive season in which he paces the league in hits. However, that type of ask would be a significant impediment for interested parties, even with forthcoming salaries of $5MM (2020), $6.75MM (2021), $2.75MM (2022), a $6.75MM club option (2023) and a luxury tax hit of just $4.0625MM.
Chicago has already been tied to Arizona’s David Peralta, but there’s no guarantee that the Diamondbacks will even make him available due to the fact that he’s controlled through 2020. Beyond that, as ESPN’s Buster Olney briefly touched upon yesterday (subscription required), Peralta’s injury history — five absences in the past three and a half seasons, including two in 2019 — could create some hesitancy for a team eyeing stability. While Olney writes that the Cubs are “open-minded” about possibilities to upgrade their lineup, he also more broadly examines the fact that this year’s altered baseball and corresponding home run surge is making it difficult for teams to evaluate players.
That reality becomes all the more apparent when looking through some of the bats available to the Cubs and other clubs on this summer’s trade market. Sifting through our recent list of the market’s top trade candidates, names like Freddy Galvis, Eric Sogard and Kole Calhoun all stand out as hitters who could be moved amid career-best power performances. None of that bunch would be the “consistent” bat the Cubs are reported to be seeking, however, and the Cubs (like other teams) are surely wondering about the sustainability of their respective power surges.
Meanwhile, both Dee Gordon and Jonathan Villar are available, but both Gordon is enduring a poor season at the plate while Villar’s year-to-year performance is full of peaks and valleys. Corey Dickerson could be moved, but the Bucs would probably prefer not to trade him to a division rival. Perhaps Detroit’s Nicholas Castellanos would more aptly fit the “professional” hitter mold sought by the Cubs, but generally speaking, this year’s market isn’t exactly flooded with solid veteran bats — particularly not at positions the Cubs could easily accommodate.
Levine also lists a left-handed reliever as an item on the Cubs’ wishlist, though that’s been known to be the case for quite some time. Beyond his speculation on San Francisco’s Will Smith and Tony Watson, the market bears a few possibilities. The Royals’ Jake Diekman would certainly be a fit, as would the even more-affordable (financially speaking) Roenis Elias in Seattle, whose trade candidacy was recently explored here at MLBTR. Were the D-backs to end up as sellers and make Andrew Chafin available, he’d surely hold interest as well.
Payroll has been an ongoing issue for the Cubs, but any of Diekman ($2.75MM), Elias ($910K) or Chafin ($1.95MM) come with a more affordable rate than Smith ($4.25MM and the highest prospect price tag) or Watson ($10.5MM in 2019 if he reaches all of his incentives, which seems likely). Notably, the Cubs’ current luxury tax payments put them within about $4MM of the top penalty bracket. Crossing that threshold would mean paying a 75 percent tax on every additional dollar spent and also dropping their top pick in next year’s draft by 10 spots. The possible return of Zobrist could add some additional salary to the books, but the lack of certainty surrounding his status makes it difficult to forecast just how much salary he’d add onto the books.
king beas
Why not call up happ instead of trading so someone who isn’t a long term answer
bluegorilla
Because they want “consistent, professional at bats.” It’s in the article.
Cubbie991
Happ isn’t a long term answer either. He is batting .234 in a hitter friendly triple A league. He is a trade piece.
Robertowannabe
Might be a trade piece but not much in return when you are hitting.234 in a hitter friendly league…….
dray16
Not much of a return if he’s in the MLB lineup either
jim stem
Quite a few players currently on 25 man rosters hitting .235 and playing every day, making a LOT of money.
bencole
Yup. Because batting average is mostly irrelevant, OBP and slugging pct are what matter.
garybjorklund
If he jumped off a bridge would you jump off a bridge?
frankf
What part of BA is a stupid stat do people not get? And it goes double for MiLB.
Nick Stevens
I still don’t buy that BA is irrelevant. If I have a runner on 2nd base and 2 outs, or a runner on 3rd with less than 2 out, I want someone to get a hit. I don’t necessarily need him to walk, or more importantly, strike out.
ba2929
Happ strikes out 1/3 of the time in AAA. That is not good. He has struck out a whopping 107 times and only has 77 hits this year. That is also not good when you’re trying to win. If you have the bases loaded and two outs, he has a chance to not even make contact 33% of the time.
I would not want him on my team.
Nick Stevens
I said I don’t want strikeouts. I just want someone who can hit over a guy drawing a walk. It can do more damage.
its_happening
Thank you Nick. It’s one of many reasons why Oakland can’t win a playoff series. Every team needs that 1 contact hitter to get that runner in from 3rd base. Yes you need table setters. You also need contact players that will take an 0-1 with a RBI rather than a nice spectacular K.
For the Blue Jays in the 90s that was Joe Carter. Every great team with multiple titles has one.
Your Cardinals had some contact hitters. I remember reading from the 2006 and 2011 teams only Edmonds K’ed over 100.
thecoffinnail
Although I agree BA is not as important as it was 20 years ago it is still an important stat. If it’s the bottom of the 9th in a tie game with a man on 3rd and 2 outs I would much rather have a guy that is hitting .300/.323/.400 than a guy hitting .235/.370/.400 at the plate.
ZappBrannigan
That’s not BA.. that’s BA with RISP.. a different stat. I agree BA itself isn’t exactly the most useful
Cubguy13
Why is it not useful? All the ppl against it just say it’s a stupid stat or it’s not useful… why?
Math513
Because it only tells part of the story. OBP tells more. You can have a guy hitting .300 with a .320 OBP or somebody hitting .250 with a .375 OBP. The latter would be more useful because he makes fewer outs.
ddevonb
While Happ has struggled at AAA, he’s hit well lately. Age 24 is very young to conclude he is not the long term solution. Whit Merrifield was 28 in his first full year in MLB.
ZappBrannigan
Happ is going to be fine, but he’s not the right call right now as is.
Kayrall
The only 25 man spot that Happ might upgrade right now is Descalso, but allegedly there are intangibles there that boost his value.
king beas
I’d rather save prospects and see what happ can do seeing he’s only turning 25 soon than trade for dee Gordon kole Calhoun or sogard
rondon
That’s not the short term answer they need.
antibelt
Better off trading for Pillar at this point. Still controllable through 2020.
cjbay
Happ, Russell, and Alzolay for Whit and Diekman. Get it done Theo!!
dray16
don’t trade alzolay please
stan lee the manly
That package doesn’t even get you Merrifield alone, Happ and Russell are low-value pieces at this point regardless of whether or not Happ can turn things around at this point.
stan lee the manly
*Regardless of whether or not you think he can turn things around
Sitting in the minors and not tearing it up hasn’t done him any favors
RoyalsFanAmongWolves
Sorry no domestic abusers please. ( meaning no Addison Russell )
ASapsFables
The Royals certainly won’t “give away” Merrifield for any of the “spare part” MLB ready players that many Cubs fans are suggesting. A team just embarking on their own rebuild doesn’t need Albert Almora, Kyle Schwarber, Mike Montgomery and especially Addison Russell who have equal or less control than Merrifield. The Royals also don’t need Ian Happ who still can’t solve his SO problems at AAA Iowa.
The Royals will be targeting top prospects with full team control once they hit the big leagues. I can also see them having some interest in a versatile player like David Bote who is much younger than Merrifield and is locked into an even cheaper contract through 2026 with a couple of team options at the back end.
ba2929
The royals aren’t going to trade for a utility infielder so you don’t have to worry about that.
robert-5
Inclined to agree, and I dont think the Cubs should continue trading away their top prospects to fix short term holes. Theo has already traded away guys like Eloy Jimenez and Gleyber Torres to patch holes.
Cubs’ farm system is depleted and not being restocked very efficiently.
Merrifield would be a nice fit, but I dont know that he’s the missing piece that gives the Cubs a WS title the way Aroldis Chapman did in ‘16.
I would like to see Theo and Jed send a message to the system that they’re tired of watching guys underperform and not live up to their talent. Guys like Schwarber and Russell and Almora should be marketed to teams in search for LH relief and perhaps a Daniel Murphy/ Whit Merrifield- type “professional” hitter. It will be trading low but Im tired of watching these guys flounder. Perhaps they need a change of scenery.
Also, I think Caratini would be a nice trade chip, he’s shown enough to prove he deserves to be more than a backup catcher. Cubs need a veteran catch n throw guy to back up Willson and perhaps help mentor him on the finer points behind the dish.
Just my $0.02….
garybjorklund
The Cubs won in 2016 DESPITE Chapman, not because of him.
bencole
Most teams don’t feel this way. At least the smart ones don’t. They evaluate players based upon baseball.
Chris Lee
Include Maldonado from Royals in trade. Although I’m not sure Cubs will send the type of players Moore wants.
excusemeflo
You clearly only watched game 7 of the World Series if you truly think that.
ddevonb
It doesn’t work that way. To get Merrifield they can’t trade the guys you wnat them to trade. They have to trade the players that KC wants… and it’s a bidding war.
ddevonb
The Cubs system is being restocked. They will have more young players when they need them. Trading Caratini would be foolish. Any backup they get will be worse. He’s the best back up in MLB.
ASapsFables
ba2929: David Bote is more than a “utility infielder”. He’s logged time at every position except catcher as a pro in the Cubs system including 5 less than stellar appearances on the mound in the low minors.
The Cubs encourage versatility in their system and even more so at the MLB level with Manager Joe Maddon at the helm. That’s not to say that Bote couldn’t be a regular at 3B where Kris Bryant is ahead of him on the depth chart. He’s also had to fight for playing time in the Cubs system competing with high level talent like Javier Baez, Addison Russell and others as he worked his way up to the big league club.
Keep in mind that Bote is also just 26-years old. The incredibly valuable AND versatile Whit Merrifield didn’t even debut with the Royals until he was 27. Bote is now in his second season with the Cubs. He appeared in 74 games and garnered 210 PA’s as a true backup last season. This year he has already played in 82 games and registered 255 PA’s on a team deep in positional talent, no doubt benefiting from the early season suspension of Russell and the departure of Ben Zobrist due to his divorce. That being said, Bote has logged significant playing time which has even resulted in Maddon utilizing Bryant more often in the outfield this season.
Bottom line: It will take more than Bote to pry Merrifield away from the Royals as I have already stated in numerous comments. Bote can still be an important part of a deal to KC along with a couple of the Cubs top prospects. In my opinion, Bote would have more value to the Royals with his ability and cheap control than what the likes of Albert Almora, Kyle Schwarber and Mike Montgomery could provide in a trade package.
JeffBakerFieryFart
Were you even there? Who was going to be the closer if not Chapman???
JeffBakerFieryFart
Trade Caratini? You might be eligible for some kind of public assistance. Contreras’ performance was hurt last year because the Cubs didn’t have an able backup. So now that they have an able backup and Contreras is on fire…trade the able backup??? Have you had a lobotomy????
JeffBakerFieryFart
Gary Bjorklund, that is a special kind of stupid!
The Human Toilet
Not true. No Chapman and Rendon and Strop who both were not a 100% would of had to close out games and Likely not even gets past the Giants in the NLDS.
garybjorklund
UMMM..Cause he sucks?? Throw a fastball in his eyes three rimes and he takes a seat.
steelerbravenation
Happ for Watson ????
bencole
Yeah don’t think they’re trading happ for a non-elite reliever, and as good as Watson has been he’s not elite.
PickleRiccck
Doubt Ian Crapp has any trade value at this point. Strikes out about 40% of the time … in AAA.
its_happening
Cubs would be wise to deal him for a small piece, like a 4th OF or backup middle INF who’s better than Descalo.
ZappBrannigan
Lol they could just stick Happ at 2nd base and he’d do better than Descalso.. and I’m sure Happ has zero exp as an INF at a professional level.
mizzourah87
Admittedly I know nothing of the Cubs’ farmhands, but after a glance at their top 30 prospects I don’t think they have the pieces to get Whit. Even if they did, I doubt the Cubs would want to empty out the cupboard for him.
Also, I don’t think the royals should be looking to get major league ready players back, I think they should focus on adding the highest FV they can regardless of age or projected arrival.
Kayrall
They DO have the pieces to get him but probably would be hesitant to pull the trigger. Theo and Jed have gotten more clingy to prospects in the past year and a half.
excusemeflo
I think this one would be worth pulling the trigger on though. For the cost and the controllable years, he’s the perfect fit. Gives them the leadoff hitter they haven’t had since Dex, and he’s versatile. That being said, I believe you are right. It’s doubtful they end up making a deal happen.
Yankeepride88
Do they? Sure, but if others are in on Whit then the Cubs can’t beat many offers from teams that have deeper systems
bencole
Yeah, but no one’s going to pay to the point where the Cubs dont have enough. Yes, plenty of teams have more but there’s a limit to what any team will pay and that doesn’t approach the Cubs depth.
Priggs89
If they put up Hoerner and Amaya, the Royals would take it.
bencole
Maybe. I would put them up.
ASapsFables
Yep, with perhaps the Cubs #3 or #4 prospects as well who are LHP Brailyn Marquez or RHP Adbert Alzolay, the latter of whom recently made his MLB debut before being optioned back to AAA Iowa.
CFS77
I would push a package starting with Bote at the major league level.
Then a top 100 talent in Amaya at catcher. He just started AA.
3RD player would be Tyson Miller. Just promoted to Iowa after dominating Tenn.
That would be for Wit.
Then I would want Dickson and I would push back Montgomery with a decent prospect to push it through. KC seems to be able to rehab pitchers and Mike needs it and a starting gig. I would make Oscar De La Cruz the 2nd player. He is of the 50 game suspension list. Going into it he was injury prone and I’m guessing he started taking a banned to get past his injuries. He has been far more useful after returning. 3.38 ERA and a 1.17 WHIP.
So they would get a SP with control that they can utilize furring the rebuilt for innings. A IF that can pretty much play every spot on the IF. 2 SP prospects that have upside. And a top end D first catcher that can hit for power.
It would be a good haul IMO and they could still ask for Happ and I’m pretty sure Theo would just toss him in.
ddevonb
They have the prospects, I just don’t want them to trade the number it will take to get it done.
CalcetinesBlancos
Any GM that gives up an arm and a leg to get Whit Merrifield needs their head examined.
CubsManager2020
They should try and add Shin Soo Choo as their leadoff hitter
mike127
He’s got about $8M left on this year’s salary and $21M next year. No thanks—no chance of the Cubs doing that unless the Rangers want to pay about 95% of the remaining money.
bencole
And the Rangers are contending
ElMagoN9ne
To do what? Be a cheerleader? Hard pass.
diehardcubbie
This is going to be an extremely unpopular option, but I’m going to throw it out anyway. With having 3 big batters in the middle of the lineup and a back up catcher who is playing extremely well. What could the Cubs get for Wilson Contreras? Caratini is playing well and is a better pitch framer and calls a very good game. We honestly don’t need Contreras’s bat in the lineup. I think the Cubs could solve their problems at leadoff and have, still, a very deep lineup.
1) New Leadoff
2)Baez/Bryant
3)Bryant/Rizzo
4)Rizzo/Bryant
5)Heyward/Schwarber
6)Scwarber/Heyward
7)Caratini
8)Almora
Like I said not a very popular opinion, but I think it is definitely something that would be interesting to consider.
Josh5890
Problem with that is that you need a good back up catcher, and Wilson has more playoff experience than Caratini.
I don’t believe anyone on the roster is 100% untradeable but I don’t think his spot can be easily replaced.
mike127
If you’re going to trade a top three catcher in the game—you have to get a top three lead off hitter in the game…..unless you are getting that player, no way you consider trading Contreras. In your scenario, he also has to be a second basemen…..leadoff hitter is not a real baseball position. And there is no data to suggest that Caratini is a five-six day a week catcher. You need to fill in a name before considering.
Nick Stevens
You don’t give up a catcher who can slug .500+. Not in today’s game. Piazza wasn’t a defensive catcher either. That pitch framing crap is nonsense. So is calling a game. Over rated. Pitcher has control. If not, shame on him. You think Scherzer or Kershaw give a damn who’s behind the plate? They’ve had dozens of catchers “call” their games.
king beas
Kershaw actually only threw to aj Ellis for years
Adios pelota!
I disagree completely with this, catchers are one of the most important parts of the team. Buster Posey is the perfect argument against this. 3x world series titles with him behind the plate. I understand the pitching was excellent but the best pitchers changed every year they won. You wanna say Bochy, well he doesn’t play, he manages the game which is “overrated” I’m sure. The one constant is him behind the dish calling games and stealing strikes. And he never put up a huge Slugging percentage or hits for power, but he hits to all fields.
Regarding Kershaw, he did have a personal catcher for a number of years, see AJ Ellis
mike127
Ah, BUT——when those robot umpires finally get here (kidding) pitch framing will not mean a thing…..and I think Kershaw will be a Hall of Famer, AJ Ellis or not.
Adios pelota!
The robot umpires comment actually got a small chuckle from me lol wasn’t expecting that response, well done. I’m kinda fighting the system
(Pun intended) for a response lol. As a giants fan, as long as hes behind the dish I hope that day never comes.
66TheNumberOfTheBest
Robot umps getting rid of pitch framing would be one of the best parts.
Wow, you fooled a 60 year old guy whose union will never let him get fired no matter how many calls he messes up….what a skill.
All of the fans in the stands who can barely even see the glove are so riveted by this talent of moving said glove an 1/8th of an inch..
Taking pitches is a skill, too. It shouldn’t be punished.
Nick Stevens
Kershaw has been fine since Ellis left 3 years ago. His only issue now is staying healthy. And Buster Posey is your argument AGAINST this? You mean the offensive catcher who was ROY, MVP, And perennial MVP votes for about 5-6 years? That’s a poor choice as a guy to use against my comment.
ddevonb
While there won’t be robot umpires, there will eventually be an electronic strike zone. The umps miss to many.
Sideline Redwine
LOL no. You are so wrong here. Ask any pitcher about these things–after pitcher, catcher is the most important defensive position, and they do make a major impact on pitching. To think otherwise ignores reality. The two guys you mention are elite–they may not need much assistance, but ask them and they will tell you the catcher spot is quite important.
excusemeflo
Dumb comment. To answer your question, yes. Every single pitcher in baseball cares who is behind the plate.
Nick Stevens
Just agree to disagree. Hell, it didn’t affect Wainwright yesterday without Molina. It really hasn’t affected the Cardinals as a whole even Molina is out. I get it that some guys have special catchers they like, but a good pitcher does well regardless.
excusemeflo
That’s fine. My point is that when pitchers don’t have a good rapport with their catchers, it can completely disrupt their rhythm and can get in their heads. I’ve seen Lester get pissed at Contreras plenty of times when they aren’t on the same page. When pitchers are frustrated, they tend to make mistakes. I’m not saying game calling is the most important quality in a catcher, but completely dismissing it is pretty ignorant.
Nick Stevens
Most of Lester’s pissiness is aimed at the umpire not giving him calls. I have never said a pitcher and catcher don’t or shouldn’t have a good rapport. I’m saying it’s overrated and overhyped by people.
Sheep8
Think it’s a good idea and has been bantered by some Chicago sports radio hosts, but Willson might fetch more in the off-season. It’s a good idea as he seems to break down in the second half and is a catcher, who just break down!
king beas
I’d put syndergaard on the table if Contreras is available
bencole
Uh… Caratini isn’t a quality big league starter.
diehardcubbie
Have you seen his numbers this year? Caratini is quality enough when you have those 3 big boppers in the middle of the line up. Like I said Contreras’s bat isn’t really needed. Bryant, Rizzo, and Baez batting with someone consistently on base could be even more dangerous. I think it would be worth a look if the right piece became available for Contreras.
ElMagoN9ne
Cubs are not trading the best catcher in baseball
chitown311
Hahahahahaha
Garmo87
Choo is available in Texas.
metnoxious
Hey Cubs fan how does Jed Lowrie sound?We’ll throw in Famillia too. You could give us say, a bag of balls. If you push us we might take one scuffed up baseball. This price is negotiable!!!
king beas
Brodie would probably take a punch to the face to get rid of those two guys with all the heat he’s gotten from signing them
ElMagoN9ne
Didn’t familia get banned for life?
Jared306
I don’t think the “Power surge” is what you should be paying attention to with Sogard. He has had a number of solid at bats, takes his walks and has put the ball in play more this year due to a small batting stance adjustment that was made in his AAA Buffalo stint at the beginning of the year. He walks nearly as much as he strikes out. He is making around the minimum as well. I doubt it would cost the Cubs alot of prospects either Maybe two sub top 10 prospects.,
bencole
Mmm yeah but he sucks
Bswaw3
Trade Almora, Happ and minor league pitcher for Merrifield. Solves your leadoff spot and has team-friendly deal. Maddon never going to let Almora be an everyday player and Happ is buried behind Bote and now Garcia. No- Brainer for me..
diehardcubbie
No freaking way that KC takes that deal. Almora a decent OF and Happ isn’t worth anything anymore. Whit is going to take us giving away at least 2 of our top 4 prospects and then some. He is controllable, on a team friendly contract, and he is versatile.
I would hate to see the Cubs do it, but it would take Almora, Horner, and Amaya to start.
rondon
I’m thinking Schwarber, Montgomery, Amaya and another piece might do it. All with controllable years and affordable salaries. Adding a LH 30 HR power bat as a DH is a rare commodity right now and Schwarber fills the bill. I don’t think they trade Hoerner.
Steve Adams
Montgomery is only controllable through 2021, is already earning $2.45MM and has pitched poorly in 2019. Schwarber also only has two seasons of control and is at $3.39MM. That offer wouldn’t be in the ballpark.
“Controllable, MLB-ready players” in this instance means pre-arb guys with 5-6 years of control remaining — not a pair of underperforming veterans who are controlled for less time than Merrifield himself.
diehardcubbie
If you truly believe that a swing man, a below Average hitter w/power, and one prospect is going to get one of the best leadoff hitters in the game you are insane. Today’s game is all about control and Whit has control. In today’s market that package would barely get Whit as a rental. It’s time that the rest of the Cubs fan figure out that Happ, Schwarber, and Almora aren’t as valuable as they were 3 years ago. They are throw ins at this point. I don’t want us to trade Hoerner, but he is more than likely a must. Whit will demand Hoerner and Amaya, then one of the 3 (Happ, Schwarber, Almora) and at least one more prospect.
The Cubs will not get anything for our bellow average scraps. No one wants a longshot project, unless it is a swap of two guys who need a change of scenery.
cubshoops5
Steve- I totally agree that this is nowhere near the package they want. But are we really considering 26 year old players “veterans”. Man that makes the majority of posters on here in retirement homes by that age definition…
rondon
Ok, I hear ya. But you guys seem to put a premium on players who haven’t reached free agency and on LH power bats. Seems like this is one down year for Montgomery against a number of solid years. But I get it. It would take more. What do you think would be in the ballpark?
rondon
diehard… Thanks for your expert, patronizing reply, but I think I’ll bow to the courteous response of Steve Adams.
Dominion
One also has to remember that it will be a few yrs till KC will be a serious contender. By then, Whit may not be the same guy he is today. Everything is a risk in baseball. Trade a possible future Whit(Hoerner) for today’s Whit and throw in Montgomery so they have a possible #4 Pitcher over the next 2 years. I would not trade almora for he is undervalued. His bat will get better and he’s a future gold glove center fielder. If Cubs need to add Happ or another piece have KC throw in Diekman and at that point the trade could make sense. Otherwise grab Sogard for a bag of balls and wait till off season to wheel and deal
RoyalsFanAmongWolves
The Royals don’t need another shortstop. isn’t Niko hoerner one? We drafted a couple shortstops in this year‘s draft. We would want pitchingl
ASapsFables
Similar to White Sox 2018 first round pick pick Nick Madrigal, Nico Hoerner was listed as a SS coming out of college but is seen as a much better candidate to play 2B in the big leagues. Madrigal actually made the move to 2B in his final year at Oregon State University in deference to top defensive SS Cadyn Grenier who the Orioles took with the overall #37 pick in the same draft class.
jrad2007
Will take more than that to get him.
martras
I think the Cubs are going to get a pretty nice boost from Hamels returning, Kimbrel working into form and Darvish’s continued improvement.
Megatron2005
Well their farm system is bottom 5 currently. If they chose to gut it even further ot shouldn’t be for a 3 month rental.
spinach
Brandon Belt would be nice leadoff. If they were comfortable with him in left it would work. Also has the playoff experience thing. Probably wouldn’t cost a ton prospect-wise if they took on good portion of the contract.
caws
Merrifield and Diekman to the Cubs.
Royals get: Happ, Almora, Montgomery, and an A ball lottery ticket.
The article said KC would want 3 mlb grade players. The trade of Homer Bailey opens a slot for a starter, and Montgomery wants to be in a starting rotation.
Steve Adams
“Three MLB ready players” doesn’t mean “any three will do.”
Whit Merrifield has become one of the best all-around players in MLB and is signed to one of the game’s best contracts. The Royals aren’t trading him for what amounts to the Cubs’ spare parts.
RoyalsFanAmongWolves
The royals might do an opener for the fifth starter, We don’t need any cubs pitching. I thought Montgomery was one of the more consistent pitchers for the cubs? (Are you suggesting him because he was originally a Royals farmhand?)
Dan Rogers
Cub fans always over-valuing their assets
ASapsFables
You can say the same for any fan of any team.
martras
No way! Not Padres fans. Padres fans are super realistic. I’m sure Wil Myers for Merrifield is almost a done deal!
Dan Rogers
You have a point. As a braves fan, I see it nonstop.
Pops
Villar would be an excellent fit for the Cubs. Switch-hitting speedster, can play 2B or SS. Ideal leadoff hitter type. Might only cost 2 A-ball specs.
Bill walsh
Cubs problem
Contreras Baez Almora, streak hitters
Schwarber, Bryant 2 of the worst clutch hitters in baseball last 3 years
its_happening
Cubbies….if you aren’t prepared to call up Happ and if you’re not sold on him giving you professional at bats, deal him. You don’t want to hold him too long and lose out on a deal for the here and now.
diehardcubbie
They already held on to him too long. They should have traded him 2 years ago when the price was high. His trade value has dropped to virtually nothing already.
its_happening
He hasn’t quite hit rock bottom. Yet.
I’d argue last year was the time to do it. Maybe they win the division outright and use Happ to trade for JA Happ to replace Chatwood last year. A year ago today the Cubs were committed to Almora in CF with Zobrist as the 10th man and Bote was hitting (at that point).
Personally would not mind the Blue Jays trading for Happ to play CF.
pburghkid
What about Starling Marte? Pirates have too many outfielders, they have made him knowingly available in the past. He is fast and would be a great leadoff man with some power in his bat, plays gold glove outfield and has a great arm and speed. If price is right, he is intriguing
mike127
Bingo!! That’s the exact guy—-start with Almora and something else. It allows Heyward to go to right field every day. It allows Bryant to go back to third base every day.
The only problem is that Almora and centerfield is really the hole on the Cubs—not sure that the Pirates would make that swap. Not sure about Marte’s Control, but it might coincide with Almora’s—-which needs to be a benefit to Pittsburgh.
Almora is just not an everyday player—Maddon has given him numerous chances to do that and he really only thrives at the selective matchups.
But—-Marte is the exact guy the Cubs need.
pburghkid
Think he is signed through 2022 at about $10mil a year. He always seems to hit well at Wrigley. Pirates need Pitching prospects or catching but they have too many outfielders with Bryan Reynolds coming out of nowhere. Marte is expendable for them and would be a great leadoff man with speed, good average and some pop. Go get him if Cubs can. I think he would Definently be a cheaper option than Merrifield
Vineline
What ‘intangibles’ does Descalso bring to the Cubs? He cleans the dugout after each game? He cannot hit, is a below-average fielder, and has no speed. Does he teach the young players to stay in the league without producing? The Cubs should release him immediately. There are a number of Iowa Cubs who deserve a chance over him. How about Zack Short?
its_happening
“Does he teach the young players to stay in the league without producing?”
Excellent line.
Cinzelhot
Here’s the deal:
Cubs get Merrifield, Diekman
Royals get Schwarber, Hoerner, Amaya, player to be named later.
RoyalsFanAmongWolves
We have enough outfielders, we don’t need anymore!
Dan Rogers
Luckily, schwarber isn’t really an outfielder
Cinzelhot
Schwarber will do nicely as your DH in the 4 spot with power
diehardcubbie
So you have enough OF and enough IF? Yeah ok, we will see how many actually pan out. Nothing wrong with having blue chip prospects no matter how many you have. Half of these guys in the minors you are planning on being great, or even good, will never produce in the bigs. If they do you can always use your surplus of position talent to make deals for pitching. The royals would be insane to pass up on Hoerner and Amaya. The fact that you are already planning on this years draft picks too is absurd. They have not proven anything. Hoerner has consistently hit so far in his professional time, and Amaya still very young has progressed and projects very nicely.
RoyalsFanAmongWolves
Actually I meant enough on a 40 man and 25 man . Ned Yost rarely uses the same DH every day so Schwarber would not DH every day. Just go after vilar.
ncaachampillini
I think this is the most logical trade suggestion I’ve seen for Whit. Would need more for Diekman. To Royals among Wolves Amaya is one of the top minor league prospects at Catcher, Kyle would be a DH, Hoerner is the star of the deal as the future 2B for your team. I actually think Montgomery could be added in too. He’s a cheap back of rotation starter still totally cheap.
I think this is probably close to enough to get Merrifeld.
ElMagoN9ne
Thats way too much. Theo isn’t stupid. Boneheaded sometimes yes..stupid no .if you want Schwarber and2 of the cubs top prospects then the return cant be 4 for 2. If it includes those then the Cubs get Merrifield and Diekman plus a prospect.
Or replace Amaya and Hoerner with happ and Russell.
diehardcubbie
As a Cubs fan you have got to be kidding me. Schwarber, Russell, and Happ don’t even get close. Schwarber is an under achiever and bellow average in everything except Power, Happ is worthless hitting under .240 in AAA with astronomical K rates, and Russell hasn’t played up to standard since 2016. To get a low cost controlled talent the Cubs have to give up valuable pieces. I don’t think they will go after him because the asking price is too high.
Hoerner, Amaya, Colin Rae, Mike Montgomery, Duane Underwood and a PTBNL for Whit and Diekman is probably more along the lines of what the deal would need to look like.
Like I said I don’t like the idea of trading away our top 2 prospects when our farm system is already depleted. I’m just being realistic on what it is going to take to get Merrifield.
ElMagoN9ne
That’s plenty to get it done. The asking price is insane. I’m a diehard Cubs fan. 34 years and counting. Amaya and Hoerner are not going anywhere unless they get equal talent back and at least 2 players to help immediately
CUBLUVER
Schwarber,Amaya,minor league pitcher not Alzolay and perhaps an outfielder Almora? for MERRIFIELD…No trading Hoerner
RoyalsFanAmongWolves
I really wish people would STOP connecting Whit Merrifield to the Cubs! For the last Time to those professional writers: The Cubs don’t have anything in their farm that would appeal to the Royals. And I’m not talking speed and defense. I’m talking pitching!
When will the Cubs actually start tanking again so they can fill their farm up? Or do large markets not do that? Is that only a small market thing?
Kayrall
“The Cubs don’t have anything in their farm that would appeal to the Royals. And I’m not talking speed and defense. I’m talking pitching!”
Are you basing that off of top 100 lists?
martras
Probably. You know, the kind of list which is compiled from scouting reports and results which every single GM in baseball is going to review. Those lists are worth more than a catchy name or some comments about so-and-so’s potential ceiling among fan websites.
ASapsFables
Per Bruce Levine: “An ideal fit for the Cubs would be Royals second baseman Whit Merrifield, but Kansas City isn’t shopping him, sources said. That conversation is a non-starter unless the Royals receive three MLB-ready players who could help them right now, sources said.”
Who are Levine’s sources? The Royals are just beginning their own rebuild and should be prioritizing top prospects over “MLB-ready players”. They are in the same position as the division rival Tigers and way behind the Twins, Indians and White Sox in the AL Central.
If I’m running the Royals, I’d be targeting the Cubs top-3 prospects for Whit Merrifield: 2B Nico Hoerner, C Miguel Amaya and LHP Brailyn Marquez.
Hoerner would be the closest to MLB-ready with an ETA of 2020. He would make a nice compliment to future SS Bobby Witt Jr. who the Royals just selected as the overall #2 pick in last month’s Rule 4 Draft.
The other two prospects are each at A-ball and further behind from any potential MLB debut. Right-handed hitting Amaya would make for a nice compliment to the Royals current top catching prospect who is lefty hitting MJ Melendez. Melendez is ranked as the #7 overall catching prospect per MLB.com while Amaya is slotted at #4 and also sits at #76 on the sites top-100 list. Both are strong defenders with Amaya having a little more potential with the bat.
RoyalsFanAmongWolves
We already have a shortstop – Adalberto mondesi. Currently Nicky Lopez is playing second for us. We already have a lot of infielders now (in the minors) we don’t need another one. And I know that shortstops can almost play anywhere.
I don’t think they’re going to shop Whit. And when they say MLB ready, They might even mean a quick callup from AAA. We don’t want to take three people for ONE spot on the 40 man.
The royals are in year two of the rebuild. Two of the Pitchers that we drafted last year are already in AA. Depending on the development of other Pitching prospects, the rebuild might not take as long.
Cinzelhot
If you trade Diekman and Merrifield, you just freed up 2 of those spots for the 3-4 player return.
ElMagoN9ne
Addison Russell plays 2nd replacement for Merrifield and happ can DH and play 2nd, 3rd, 1st and all 3 outfield spots.
Cinzelhot
And if I’m running the Cubs, I’d meet your asking price on 2 of the three prospects- Hoerner and Amaya for Merrifield. Thats the base package. Knowing you would want more, I’d make Schwarber, Almora, Russell, Montgomery, C.J. Edwards, or Happ available since you want controllable players. Schwarber makes the most sense as he’s MLB already and really would suit your DH spot nicely with a ton of power. But I’m also asking for Diekman in the package, especially if its Schwarber being dealt, and throwing in a player to be named later in a little more return for Diekman.
Socrates Curveball
Whit Merrifield would bring the Cubs what Zobrist did during the World Series Run. Versatility, leadoff hitter and lengthens the Cubs top heavy lineup. Issue is doubt Royals in this stage have interest in the former highly touted underachieves (Schwarber, Addison Russell, Ian Happ) or any pieces on the big league club. System is empty. Even if Cubs offered Hoerner, Miguel Amaya & one of their other top 10 prospects… Royals could find a better deal from the A’s, Rays, Padres… How creative is Theo? And is he actually willing to part with Hoerner and Amaya?
ChiSoxCity
The cubs have too many limitations to trade for anyone that will matter. They’re in love with too many players on the roster, and they have a weak farm system.
ryanp
Why is Whit Merrifield’s control relevant? He’s 30. Having 30+ year old hitter locked up is a negative.
its_happening
If some believe the Cubs farm doesn’t have the horses, here’s some insanity…..
Happ, Russell and Chatwood for Grichuk, Galvis and Hudson.
Vineline
How about Descalso and Brach for a Twix bar and a can of Schlitz?
its_happening
Flip Schlitz for Schweppes and you have a deal.
ElMagoN9ne
Please stay away from jonanthan VR. Dont trade for an outfielder with spot to play him. Whit Merrifield is a huge “price tag” on him but it wont cost the cubs anyone in their top 20 prospects. Who ever their #30 prospect is plus Russell and happ. That is a no brainer. 8 years of control just happ and Russell.
diehardcubbie
LOL please stop with these horrible trade proposals. Yes the Royals want controllable players, but they want controllable players that will produce at the major league level someday. Russell and Happ have proven they won’t be those guys. They are below average hitters, with above average K rates, and issues between the ears. Russell both on and off the field.
ElMagoN9ne
Russell is gonna get someone like will Smith. Russell is an improvement over joe panik on both sides ..
diehardcubbie
Oh please… Today’s market isn’t taking players who under perform with multiple years of MLB experience. Especially when another team will give up more (and they will). Will Smith is going to be like a Nico Hoerner and a PTBNL. I don’t like the price tag, but this is definately a sellers market, Russell, Happ, Schwarber aren’t bringing more than the 5th or 6th best reliever on the market… Just being realistic with the demand of relief. Literally every single contender needs a relief pitcher.
jdgoat
Eric Sogard would be a nice Descalso replacement. He’s literally doing what Descalso’s job was supposed to be.
Nick Stevens
Sogard has a career .654 OPS and now he’s .853. That is not going to sustain itself.
sjwil1
it might for 90 days… that’s all they need
its_happening
Cubs would have to teach Sogard where to go in a rundown. If you don’t believe me ask Matt Shoemaker.
ChrisEnvy76
Amaya, Hoerner, Bote, Contreras and Alzolay for Merrifield and Keller.
Captain Baez
why notjust trade Baez Rizzo Bryant Contreras Hendricks Hammels and Lester for merrifield thats just as silly thing to say as the comment above this one.file this one and the one above as a trade that will NEVER happen and is grossly undervaluing the players shock suggested
ChrisEnvy76
Merrifield and Keller are worth the trade I proposed. Stop overvaluing prospects. It’s two major league players (Contreras being one of the better offensive catchers in the game) and 3 prospects for one of the best hitters and base stealers in the game in Merrifield and an outstanding pitcher in Keller who is only 22. What a ridiculous hyperbolic thing to say… I’m not talking about trading the entire team.. Two pieces for two pieces that the Cubs need.
msqboxer
Take Contreras out and add Almora in and that makes more sense.
ElMagoN9ne
Your shock top beer is laced with illegal substances. stop drinking it.
ChrisEnvy76
Boring
Captain Baez
there is nothing new here cub fans not ready to give up on players on the roster but not playing at anywhere near allstar leval and anti cubs fans telling anyone that would listen that all the cubs players and farm system are garbage. It seems the white sox fans adore trolling cubs fans and telling them that they basicly suck all while there team actually stinking up the AL central. The Cubs are NOT getting merrifield period. The cost will be unpaletable for them and would weaken the bench to say the least.
CubsManager2020
Why would you people give up Hoerner as part of a package for Merrifield? I understand Merrifield is good, but he’s already 30, and has only doing good for the last 2.5 years. I wouldn’t trade Hoerner, Amaya, or Alzolay for Merrifield.
diehardcubbie
I don’t think Cubs fans are saying to trade Hoerner or Amaya. I have mentioned their names plenty of times, in a sense of that is what it would take to get a deal done. I hope they don’t trade either of those guys, but if they want Merrifield it will take both, plus some.
Fred K. Burke
Just don’t see the Cubs making a big move by the trade deadline. By big move I mean someone like Merrifield. I can see the Cubs adding a left handed reliever-Thinking Jake Diekman. Beyond that, the Cubs will go with what they have. Anything short of a World Series the Cubs will then completely reassess this team during the off season. In Theo’s own words back in March “This is a season of reckoning”.
CJML
Cubs need left handed bullpen help. Period. Whit would be great but the cubs need to build those minors back up.
RoyalsFanAmongWolves
But wouldn’t that require eventually tanking?
CJML
Not at all. Cubs have a very solid lineup top to bottom and a very solid starting rotation top to bottom. What they don’t have is a consistent bullpen. It’s certainly improved with CK but have zero viable lefty relievers right now. If this teams bullpen was just slightly above average they would be running away with the central.
CJML
They also have plenty of aging veterans that will need to be replaced in the next 2-3 years and a number of young guys that need to be extended. Having talent in minors should be a priority unless they get that piece that puts them over the top. Whit Merrifield seems to be a really good player but if I am the cubs I am not trading the farm for one great season from a 30 year old speedster who’s sb numbers won’t exist in 2 years.
ChiSoxCity
Quick, name the last time Dumpster div’in Theo made an impactful trade.
mike127
Let’s see: Cashner for Rizzo; Feldman for Arrieta and Strop; Valbuena for Fowler: Samardzija for Russell; Dempster for Hendricks; Garza for Edwards; Vogelbach for Montgomery…..impact was a World Championship—-and every player they acquired qualify for your “dumpster” definition.
Captain Baez
dont confuse the homer troll with facts he will probably only call you a racist because there is no decent reply to what you had to say. Great job.
mike127
Ah Captain, I’m well aware——just waiting back for his flashback to 2012….the season Dumpster Divin’ Theo took over. That was the one year the White Sox finished above .500, the one year the White Sox had a better record than the Cubs and the one year that the White Sox didn’t finish 4th or last since Theo took over the Cubs.
The ultimate compliment in sports is not being liked…(Patriots, Yankees, Cowboys, Notre Dame football…..and now, the Cubs). It’s very complimentary reading others wasting their time about stuff that doesn’t pertain them directly. I take it as nothing more than that.
ChiSoxCity
The answer is Cole Hamels. What’s sad about that is the cubs would’ve never had to trade for him, or give him $20MM to stay an extra year if Chattwood and Darvish weren’t so freaking terrible. Epstein did a good job of tanking and restocking the farm system, but he clearly has no idea how to improve the team in any meaningful way. Schwarber, Almora, Russell, Happ, Edwards and yes, even Bryant should have been traded to upgrade the roster by now. His ego won’t allow him to admit he was wrong about these guys, so their value diminishes by the day. No skin off my nose; I already see what’s coming. cubs fans are in a constant state of delusion about how good this team is since ‘16. The cubs are a bad team, and it will become clearer during the second half. Let’s face it—it’s what cubs fans want anyway. They want Maddon fired (for doing exactly what Epstein and his analytics department tells him to do). Well, falling below .500 is just what the doctor ordered. I hope the Cardinals hire him in the offseason. Payback will be a “…..”.
baseballwarshipper
I see this as a good match for a trade. A lot of Cubs fans will be mad at how much they gave up and Royals fans will be mad at the return. Reminds me of how upset Royals fans were when they traded away the great prospect Wil Myers.
RoyalsFanAmongWolves
That worked out for the Royals because we got wade davis.
baseballwarshipper
Thank you Captain Obvious.
uncle mike
Has anyone heard fro the Cardinals John Mozeliak???? What?? What do you mean?? Yes he’s said he’s talked to all of the GM’s and Baseball presidents. Guess you’re correct, when you don’t make an effort to get impact players for your team, no one knows who you are.
Wheaty300
Russell, Happ, Montgomery, Descalso for Merrifield and Diekman. When Morroww and Zobrist comes back we will be a force to be reckoned with.
ChiSoxCity
LMAO!!!
Lefty
The Cubs just traded for a backup catcher that they didnt need and they have no less than 6 catching prospects in the minors.they just recently signed 2 top IFA catching prospects,drafted Hearn, plus Amaya,Pereda and Higgins.There will be alot of backup catcher options for Willy.So this is my take on whats going down. i think the Merrifield trade is already done but wasnt announced because Willy went on the injured list and they need Caratini until he gets back.So when he comes off injured reserve in about 8 days the trade will go through with Caratini as the centerpiece with 3 other MLB ready pieces.Hello Whit!
CUBLUVER
LEFTY, I hope your right!