Juan Soto rumors: Best trade package for every NL Central team

Juan Soto rumors: Chicago Cubs best trade package

The Chicago Cubs embraced the rebuild last year at the trade deadline. After contending for the NL Central early in the 2021 campaign, they underwent a lengthy losing streak. That allowed Jed Hoyer to move on from franchise cornerstones in Anthony Rizzo, Javier Baez, and Kris Bryant at the deadline.

Even though they have prioritized building their farm system, what if the Cubs decided “hey, Soto is on the trade block, let’s make an offer?” What exactly would it look like. Well, they would have to part ways with their top four prospects. Brennan Davis is the 28th-ranked prospect in baseball and could fill the void left by Soto in Washington’s outfield.

Joining him would be the Cristian Hernandez, who could fill a spot on the left side of the infield. Also included will have to be outfielders Pete Crow-Armstrong and Kevin Alcantara, who arrived in Chicago last year in the Baez and Bryant trades, respectively.

Juan Soto rumors: St. Louis Cardinals best trade package

The St. Louis Cardinals have the star power to make a run to the postseason once again this year. Luckily for them, they also have a solid farm system that can help them makes trades for star players to truly put them over the edge.

For Soto, they would have to part ways with their top prospect in third baseman Jordan Walker, who is ranked seventh in all of baseball. It would be hard for the Cardinals to part ways with him, but let’s not forget that the third base position is currently occupied by Nolan Arenado.

Another player that Washington will no doubt want is Nolan Gorman, who was called up this season to occupy the second base position. Then there is left-handed pitcher Matthew Liberatore, who came over from the Tampa Bay Rays in the Randy Arozarena deal. Finally, throw in catcher Ivan Herrera to give Washington’s farm system some depth at all positions.

It’s a steep price to pay for the Cardinals, but if they want Soto, it is what they will likely have to do. After all, the Nationals won’t budge on their asking price.