MLB trade deadline: This trade would send Kris Bryant to crosstown rival White Sox

Could the Cubs trade Kris Bryant to their crosstown rivals? The White Sox are in need of infield help, and Bryant fits the bill.

Bryant’s contract is up at the end of the season, and his ability to play multiple positions at an All-Star level makes him one of the most attractive commodities available at the trade deadline. The Cubs know it’s unlikely he returns to the North Side, so why not ship him south? And by that, we mean the same city.

The White Sox acquiring Bryant would officially put an end to the AL Central race which may already be over anyway. Chicago is perhaps a piece away from being World Series favorites in the American League. Bryant, meanwhile, can play third base or even the outfield if necessary.

MLB rumors: Could the White Sox trade for Kris Bryant?

The latest Cubs trade update courtesy of FanSided’s Robert Murray has them shopping pretty much everyone:

"“The Cubs are expected to listen to offers for anyone on the major-league roster, with Kris Bryant and Craig Kimbrel being the most likely of their stars to be traded. They could look to extend Javier Baez and Anthony Rizzo before looking to trade them, according to Jon Heyman of MLB Network, with Zach Davies and Andrew Chafin being among their other trade options.”"

Any trade for Bryant would take significant prospect capital, but it’s unlikely the White Sox are dealing anyone in their top-3 of Jared Kelley, Yoelqui Cespedes or Matthew Thompson.

Stiever has the most potential here, as he’s the fourth-ranked prospect in the system. Sanchez, meanwhile, can serve as some protection against Javy Baez leaving in free agency. Gladney, at just 20 years old, projects to be a replacement for Bryant in the years to come if he pans out.

It’s not an amazing package for the Cubs, but it’s likely close to the best they can do for Bryant in a contract year.