3 trades that Cubs need to get done in the final hours before deadline

2. Kris Bryant for Joey Bart

Kris Bryant is the Cubs’ best trade asset to get big value back. If that value includes the Giant’s No. 2 prospect, Joey Bart, then they have to do everything they can to make it happen.

Chicago and San Francisco have reportedly discussed such a trade that send the Cubs star out west in exchange for the promising young catcher. However, Jon Morosi of MLB Network and Andrew Baggarly of The Athletic have conflicting information about the viability of a trade involving Bart.

The Giants are trying to win now and adding Bryant could be the difference in a playoff run. However, his contract is up at the end of the season. Trading a prospect like Bart for a one-off run with Bryant is an equation that may not balance out, even with another player thrown in.

It’s a no-brainer for the Cubs, though. Chicago won’t be able to keep Bryant around. Getting Bart in return is exactly the kind of deal they need to set up their rebuild.

Even if Bart is a deal-breaker for San Francisco, getting a return for Bryant is the highest priority at the deadline.