Morning Marquee: Alcantara’s role with the Chicago Cubs; Would they consider trading Baez?

The “kids” are front and center in the news as of late. Where should Bryant start? Would they trade Baez? Do they believe in Alcantara?

The Chicago Cubs have yet to make an official decision on the fate of Kris Bryant. The majority believe the team will take advantage of the service time, wait to bring him up and gain another year of control. But it’s going to be hard to keep this kid from starting in Chicago. Our Michael Settepani believes that starting in Iowa is the right move, even if it isn’t necessarily fair.

When the Cubs acquired Dexter Fowler, they knew that had an accomplished leadoff man. But was the move to allow Arismendy Alcantara time to develop? Or did they see signs that he may not reach potential? He’ll clearly play a key role due to his versatility, but where he stand overall is still a question to be answered.

Would the Cubs consider trading Javier Baez? A year ago such a thought would have been blasphemy, even though it’s rare for a player to be considered “untouchable”. But with his struggles at the plate, and depth in the middle infield, would they now consider it? Our Tobey Johnson looks at what it would take for the Cubs to consider such a move.

These and other stories from around baseball:

‘Kris Bryant should start the season in Triple-A’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Do the Cubs believe in Arismendy Alcantara?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Tigers’ Verlander leaves game early with cramping’ – Motor City Bengals

‘How expendable is Javier Baez?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Blue Jays Roy Halladay trade officially a wash’ – Call to the Pen

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