The Chicago Cubs have been a force to be reckoned with in Major League Baseball for quite some time now. With a rich history and a loyal fan base, the Cubs have always been a team to watch out for. However, as the 2021 season approaches, there is one question on every Cubs fan’s mind – will the team be able to retain one of their top players beyond this season?
The player in question is none other than Kris Bryant, the All-Star third baseman who has been a key player for the Cubs since his debut in 2015. Bryant has been a consistent performer for the team, with a career batting average of .279 and 138 home runs. His impressive stats have made him a fan favorite and a valuable asset for the team.
But with Bryant’s contract set to expire at the end of this season, the Cubs will need to make some big moves in order to keep him in their lineup for the long term. As we have seen in the past, big-name players often come with a big price tag, and the Cubs will need to be prepared to spend big if they want to keep Bryant on their roster.
First and foremost, the Cubs will need to offer Bryant a contract extension that is worthy of his talent and contributions to the team. This means not only a significant increase in salary, but also a long-term commitment from the organization. Bryant has proven himself to be a valuable player, and he deserves a contract that reflects that.
But it’s not just about the money. The Cubs will also need to show Bryant that they are committed to building a winning team around him. This means investing in other key players and making strategic moves to strengthen the team’s overall performance. Bryant is a team player, and he wants to be a part of a winning team. If the Cubs can show him that they are serious about winning, it will go a long way in convincing him to stay.
Another factor that could play a role in Bryant’s decision is the team’s performance this season. The Cubs have had a mixed bag of results in recent years, and this season will be crucial in determining their future. If the team can put up a strong performance and make a deep run in the playoffs, it will show Bryant that they are capable of competing at the highest level and give him even more reason to stay.
It’s also worth noting that the Cubs have a new president of baseball operations in Jed Hoyer, who took over from Theo Epstein at the end of last season. Hoyer has a good relationship with Bryant and has expressed his desire to keep him on the team. This could work in the Cubs’ favor, as Bryant may be more open to negotiating with someone he already has a good rapport with.
Of course, there is always the possibility that Bryant may choose to test the free-agent market and see what other teams have to offer. But the Cubs have the advantage of being his current team, and they can use this to their advantage. They can offer him the familiarity and comfort of staying with the team he has been a part of for the past six years, which could be a significant factor in his decision.
In the end, it all comes down to the Cubs’ willingness to invest in their team and their commitment to keeping one of their top players. Bryant has been a cornerstone of the Cubs’ success in recent years, and losing him would be a huge blow to the team and its fans. But with the right approach and a strong show of commitment, the Cubs can make sure that Bryant remains a Cub for years to come.
So, to answer the question – will the Cubs need to spend big to keep Kris Bryant beyond this season? The answer is a resounding yes. But it’s not just about the money; it’s about showing Bryant that he is a valued member of the team and that the Cubs are serious about winning. With the right approach, the Cubs can secure Bryant’s future and continue to be a force in the MLB for years to come. Let’s go, Cubs!
