(670 The Score) After the Cubs began the process of selling by trading outfielder Joc Pederson to the Braves on Thursday evening, the focus turns to which player will be the next to exit Chicago.
Cubs star closer Craig Kimbrel is one of the hot commodities on the trade market, and he’s drawing strong interest from contending clubs in both leagues. The Astros, Red Sox, Blue Jays and Athletics are among the teams that have been showing interest, according to sources.
Kimbrel, 33, recently earned All-Star honors for the eighth time in his career amid a terrific season. He has a 0.57 ERA, 0.66 WHIP and 20 saves in 33 appearances. His contract includes a $16-million vesting option for 2022 based on a games finished clause in 2021, but he’s unlikely to reach that threshold. Kimbrel has finished 29 games, and the option vests if he finishes 55 games in 2021.
In trading Pederson to Atlanta, the Cubs got the Braves to take on the remainder of Pederson’s salary for 2021 and his $2.5-million buyout following the season. That could lead the Cubs to be more willing to absorb some of the $6.8 million or so remaining on Kimbrel’s contract and buyout. If that’s the case, the Cubs would ask for more value in prospects. The Cubs will want top-tier young players/prospects under contract control in exchange for Kimbrel.
Being practical about their payroll in a 2021 season that’s lost hope is a consideration for the Cubs, but they don’t intend to go into a rebuilding mode. Winning in 2022 and beyond remains the organization’s goal, and they’re moving forward with that in mind.