MLB Rumors: Predicting Trade Destinations for every Cubs Player on the Block

Cubs Rumors: Willson Contreras, C Trade Destination

A player that has known for weeks that he will be traded will soon find out his new home in a matter of days. Willson has been with the Cubs his entire career, winning the World Series, and becoming a 3x All-Star. He will be a free agent at the end of this season, which is the biggest reason why the Cubs are trading him.

It’s certainly not because of his play. He has been the best-hitting catcher in the MLB with a .258/.373/.470 with a 136 OPS+! In only 82 games, Willson has hit 20 doubles, 14 HR, 37 RBI, and walked 37 times to only 77 Ks. He would be a terrific fit for a team that needs a catcher, 1st baseman, or DH.

If you need one, or all three of these, then Contreras would fit your team. He’s been worth 2.9 WAR. With only $4.5 million or so remaining on his contract, he shouldn’t be a hard contract to fit into a large payroll. There’s one team that has been connected with Willson Contreras a ton as of late with a need at 1st and catcher.

Likely Trade Destination: Houston Astros

Cubs Rumors: Ian Happ, OF, Trade Destination

A player that first arrived right after the Cubs won the World Series could be the next player to get dealt. He’s a huge name in the trade market right now with multiple teams wanting him. As our own Robert Murray has said, two teams seem to be in the lead for Happ: the Blue Jays and the Padres.

Ian Happ has been a terrific player for the Cubs this year. Besides being named an All-Star for the first time, Happ is on pace to set numerous career-highs, including batting average, on-base percentage, and RBI. In 95 games, he’s hitting .282/.366/.446 with a 127OPS+. He has nine HR, 46 RBI, 25 doubles, and even six stolen bases. The most important improvement that Happ has made has been his strike zone control. He’s struck out only 84 times while walking 42 times!

Happ has dropped his K-rate by over 8 percent. He’s been a great player all-around, as he’s already recorded 2.3 WAR. He’s best suited to play in left field but could play any outfield position. There’s a contending team in desperate need of a switch-hitting power outfielder, one that’s done multiple trades with the Cubs before.

Likely Trade Destination: San Diego Padres