Cubs hold Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo out of lineup: Is a trade imminent?

The Chicago Cubs are holding Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo out of the lineup on Thursday.

Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo are not starting for the Chicago Cubs on Thursday afternoon and it signals a trade may be imminent.

While Bryant has been tied to trade rumors all season, only recently has Rizzo been placed on the trading block with the Boston Red Sox showing interest in the player they originally drafted.

With Bryant and Rizzo both out of the lineup, it’s likely the duo that was affectionately known as “Bryzzo” has played their final games in a Cubs uniform. Both are free agents at the end of the year and the Cubs haven’t been close to extensions with either. With the team out of the playoff picture, general manager Jed Hoyer is hoping to get something to expedite the rebuild by moving the two biggest fan-favorites on the team.

Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo contract status led to trade talk

With Rizzo and Bryant out of the lineup, it’s worth nothing Javy Baez is back in the lineup. He was dealing with a minor injury but his presence likely means he’s not about to be dealt and could be the last cornerstone of the 2016 World Series team to be extended in the offseason.

Of perhaps it’s to show other teams he’s healthy before making a trade ahead of Friday afternoon’s deadline?

Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo trade not imminent?

Cubs manager met with the media to dispel the notion a trade was imminent. Ross said it was a routine day off for Bryant and Rizzo and both would be available off the bench.

This is the first off day for Rizzo since the All-Star break and Ross wanted to give Bryant the day off on Tuesday but relented after Bryant homered the night before and was feeling good.