4 teams the Cubs could rescue by taking an expensive staff of their hands

It's not a particularly strong free-agent market, and with a looming work stoppage after December 1, and that could lead to increased trade activity during the month of November. It would be fair to assume the Chicago Cubs are involved in those discussions, considering the sheer number of roles they are looking to fill on their roster.

An added layer of intrigue in trade discussions is what the payroll outlook of baseball will look like once a new CBA is ratified. It's possible there's a salary cap, and that could lead to certain teams needing to cut salary. The Cubs have over $100 million coming of their books this offseason, and in theory, could be in a position to bail a team out in trade talks.

Here are 4 teams the Cubs could bail out with one bold move for an expensive star

Before we get started, it needs to be clear that while some of these stars have been rumored to be available in trade talks, the chances of a deal actually happening remain low. That said, let's entertain the chaos and wonder if maybe just maybe there's a deal to be made with the Cubs and one of these teams. Also note, for the money referenced, we are using FanGraphs' roster resource.

Philadephia Phillies - Bryce Harper, owed $125.69 million through the 2031 season

Even with the Phillies running it back with Don Mattingly as their manager for the next two years, the math is the math. Philadelphia's roster is loaded with bloated contracts, and considering the tension that has surfaced between Bryce Harper and the front office over the past year, it's possible he's on the trade block.

Atlanta Braves - Ronald Acuña Jr., $17 million club option for 2027 and 2028

Given the disappearing act Ronald Acuña Jr. had during the playoffs, there's been speculation that the Atlanta Braves look to trade him this offseason. Through two club options, he's owed $34 million over the next two seasons. If he's available, the Cubs likely would be interested, considering the potential of him returning to form and becoming one of the best players in baseball again. For that reason, the Braves likely would have a high asking price.

Cincinnati Reds - Hunter Greene, owed over $31 million through 2028, $21 million club option for 2029

The Reds likely are begging for someone to take Hunter Greene and his money off their hands. It would seem that Greene misses the entire 2027 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery, so the trade compensation may not be as high as one would expect, especially if the Cubs are taking on most of the money owed. It's a risk, but if Greene is healthy by 2028 (another big "if"), it could be the type damaged-goods move that Jed Hoyer loves.

Miami Marlins - Sandy Alcantara, $21 million for 2027

The Marlins hold a $21 club option for Sandy Alcantara this offseason, and it's a foregone conclusion that it will be picked up. Alcantara has routinely been connected to the Cubs over the past two years, and if the Marlins are going to trade him, time is running out. Rather than risk losing him for nothing after a shortened season, perhaps this is the offseason the Marlins actually make the trade. Cope

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