Chicago Cubs News: Which players will be arbitration eligible

Chicago Cubs News: The two most valuable arbitration-eligible players are on the diamond.

Kris Bryant

Will he be traded? Will he be a Cub in 2021 and beyond? We (should hopefully) know that the Cubs will not just let him go for nothing. After a rough 2020 season, dealing him might be a bit more difficult, but we do know how good he can be. He will be the most expensive contract of the arbitration-eligible players, projecting around $18.6 million for 2021.

Javier Baez

One might ask how the COVID-19 season’s financial hit will impact a potential contract extension for El Mago. Regardless of an extension happening this winter, he will be tendered a contract as he is an essential piece of this team, and the goal is for him to be here in the long run. Projecting around $11 million.

Willson Contreras

With the talks of major shakeups for the future, Contreras also comes up in potential trade conversations. However, it is easier said than done to trade a power-hitting catcher in his prime, who greatly improved his pitch framing in 2020. Projecting around $6.2 million.

Victor Caratini

The 26-year-old backup catcher is still seen as an important piece for the future. He can switch hit and play both catcher and first. Yu Darvish certainly appreciates him as his personal catcher. He should be tendered a contract, projected at around $1.4 million.

Jose Martinez

He was brought in mid-last season to help hit against lefties. He got on base once via a walk and was 0-21 as a Cub in what was overall a career-worst season. Projected at $2.2 million, him being tendered a deal by the Cubs feels unlikely.