Chicago Cubs: Brendan Ryan officially named the PTBNL in Castro trade

As expected, Brendan Ryan was named the PTBNL in the Starlin Castro trade with the Yankees. The Chicago Cubs seem to be “full up” in the middle of the infield. Is there another plan here?

The Yankees officially sent Brendan Ryan to the Cubs as the PTBNL in the Castro trade that brought Adam Warren to the Cubs. But with a relatively full middle infield, why would they take Ryan in the deal? Is there the possibility that a plan to move Ryan or one of the other middle infielders is already in the works?

With the signing of Jason Heyward, something was bound to give as the “J-Hey” kid has worn the number 22 his entire career while Addison Russell had donned the number in just one season. But apparently the excitement of Heyward joining the Cubs made it easy for Russell to move to a different number, one that was inspired by a former NFL running back.

ICYMI, Heyward is expected to be the starting center fielder for the Cubs on Opening Day–that is unless something changes before then. The Cubs are still looking at options in center, as well as making another move to get another starter. If the team fail to land a “true” center fielder, Heyward will be more than capable of handling the job.

These and other stories you might have missed: 

‘Brendan Ryan the PTBNL in Castro trade with Yankees’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Is a Brandon Phillips trade to the Nats close?’ – MLB.com

‘Russell tweets out reason for his new uniform number’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Former No. 1 pick to join Rangers after release from prison’ – ESPN

‘Heyward is the answer in center field for now’ – Cubbies Crib

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