Chicago Cubs: Would Javier Baez turn down a long-term contract?

The future is bright in Chicago as the Chicago Cubs boast some of the top young stars this league has to offer. Having won a World Series in 2016, could Theo Epstein keep them on the North Side?

If you have been living under a rock, then you missed “reports” of 2016 N.L. MVP Kris Bryant turning down a contract extension from the Chicago Cubs. While the news was surfaced and stirred the pot, there may not be a lot of truth behind it.

However, it would be smart on Bryant’s behalf to hold out and see what kind of money Manny Machado and Bryce Harper receive. Especially, if they just so happen to land with the Cubs during the offseason.

When looking or expecting contracts, you need to be careful to not let an opportunity to remain with your unit, slip away from your fingers. Yes, other teams will be happy to have you but this club is both special and unique.

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Despite several off-field issues concerning multiple members of this team in recent years, they have been turned into contenders. Not just contenders, one of the best teams in all of professional baseball for years to come.

For instance, outfielder Mike Trout and the Los Angeles Angels could possibly discuss another long-term deal in the future. A deal that could make Trout the highest paid athlete to ever put on a uniform.

Does he deserve it? Honestly, Trout deserves to own a piece of Los Angeles. However, it’s still Kobe Bryant’s city, so we can’t allow him to get too crazy, right?

Chicago Cubs: Long-term deals?

So, after his outstanding performance, if the Cubs were to offer him a long-term deal as well, would he accept? If the Chicago Cubs are out playing hardball and realize he’d end up being a market stealer in the future, then locking him up should be a top priority.

Yes, he is under team control for a couple more years, like Bryant. But surely, the front-office would feel more comfortable if deals beyond their controlled time were in place. Losing them to other teams would be devastating considering Chicago’s top prospects list has more pitchers than anything else.

Which is fine. Agents are working hard, more than ever before, to get their clients money that they deserve. Let’s not forget endorsements and other projects, such as one Baez has joined Kobe Bryant for.

Players these days have forced front offices to “show them the money” and it’s only going to get wilder in the future. Heck, Trout and Harper are paving the way for a potential billionaire baseball player in the future.

Or even Bryant, Baez, Gleyber Torres, Aaron Judge, Carlos Correa, Alex Bregman, Mookie Betts, Christian Yelich, and the list goes on. Whether it’s $200, $300 million, I firmly believe both Bryant and Baez will remain on the North Side until their mid-to-late 30s.

Who wouldn’t want to win another World Series in a Cubs uniform? There is more history that needs to be accomplished at Wrigley Field.