NY Mets: 3 Cubs trade candidates to consider pursuing

Kris Bryant

Let’s get the big name out of the way first and break down why the Mets should target Kris Bryant. The 4 time All-Star and 2016 MVP is currently in the final year of his contract, and is set to become a free agent for the first time in his career at the conclusion of the 2021 season.

Seeing as the Cubs likely won’t be competing in the postseason, it makes a lot of sense for Chicago to get something for him in a trade for the final 2 months of his contract before he hits the open market.

As for why the Mets should target him in a trade, they need a massive shot in the arm offensively, and Bryant has put together another All-Star season in 2021.

Over 81 games, Bryant has hit .271 with a .351 OBP with 16 home runs and 46 RBI. Stacked up against the rest of the Mets starters, only Pete Alonso has more home runs (17) and RBI (49) than Bryant, and the only starter with a higher average is Brandon Nimmo (.323).

Bryant’s bat would fit into the Mets’ lineup very nicely, and could give the team the boost it needs down the stretch as New York makes a hopeful run at the postseason.

As for where Bryant would play in the field, he is very flexible defensively. while primarily a third baseman, he has also started games for the Cubs in 2021 in all three positions in the outfield, as well as 10 games at first base.

Since the Mets have been without starting 3B JD Davis the majority of the season, and outfielders Michael Conforto and Dominic Smith have underperformed at the plate through the first half of the season, there are several different ways Bryant could hypothetically be inserted into the field.

Obviously a player of Bryant’s caliber may go for a hefty ransom, but if the Mets are serious about contending in 2021, he should certainly be a focal point of any trade talks with the Cubs.