Chicago Cubs: Could this be Kris Bryant’s last year as a Cub?

Could the Chicago Cubs move on from third baseman Kris Bryant following the 2019 season?  If this upcoming season fails to result in playoff success, it’s possible the North Siders could look to cash in on the former MVP.

Several months ago there were reports saying Chicago Cubs two-time all-star Kris Bryant turned down a contract extension worth more than $200 million.  Whether or not these reports were true, the Cubs have apparently tried to sign him long term but it seems the slugging third baseman will take himself all the way to free agency following the 2021 season.

Bryant had a down year in 2018, slashing .272/.374/.460 with a career-low 13 home runs and 52 RBI.  Injuries to his left shoulder and multiple trips to the disabled list caused Bryant to be held to 102 games, also a career-low.

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With three years left of control and questions as to whether they can keep him long-term, it’s possible this will be the Las Vegas native’s final year at Wrigley.  Would the Cubs consider moving on from Bryant if the upcoming season fails to result in a return to the World Series?

Kris Bryant’s Cubs career started a new chapter in team history.  They reached the NLCS in each of his first three seasons and, of course, won it all in 2016.

Back when Bryant made his Major League debut on April 17, 2015, there was controversy surrounding the Cubs apparent manipulation of his service time.

Despite an impressive spring training performance, the Cubs kept Bryant at Triple-A to start the major league season, allowing them to gain an additional year of control.

When you consider Epstein’s recent comments about no players being untouchable, you could start to envision a scenario where the Cubs cash in on their superstar if the 2019 season doesn’t go the way they hope.