Cubs Rumors: 3 familiar faces to trade for not named Kris Bryant or Javy Baez

Former Cubs to trade for: Aroldis Chapman

Without Aroldis Chapman, there’s no guarantee the Chicago Cubs would have won the World Series in the first place. Chapman was a workhorse in the Chicago bullpen back when he could throw 103 MPH on a regular basis. While his velocity has gone down somewhat, his slider has greater command now than it did then, and he’s added a changeup as well that he uses with some regularity.

Chapman still offers up a mid-to-high 90’s fastball. For Chicago, it’s unclear if he’d step directly into the closer’s role, which might limit fans excitement in adding him given the Royals will likely demand some prospect capital in return.

Chapman signed a one-year prove-it deal this offseason, and it has paid off big time. Assuming he keeps this kind of production up, he will be eligible to sign another large, multi-year contract this offseason. But in the meantime, he can return to the north side and pick up right where he left off.

On the season, Chapman has a 2.73 ERA and two saves, primarily in a setup man role for the Royals. Kansas City’s closer, Scott Barlow, will likely be the hotter commodity at the deadline. Jed Hoyer and Co. can swoop right in and add a familiar face while other contenders try to meet the Royals price tag for Barlow.

The Royals have been in all-out selling mode since mid-May. They’re prepared for this. The Cubs, should they keep up their winning ways, are an ideal suitor in a relatively weak NL Central.