Any hypothetical major trade scenario involving the Cubs this offseason will likely involve Kyle Schwarber.
ESPN's Bradford Doolittle and David Schoenfield took the bait and speculated on trades they would like to see. Schwarber was involved in a pair of theoretical deals that will likely entice Cubs fans.
The first proposed deal was the Indians sending two-time AL Cy Young winner Corey Kluber to the Cubs for a package centered around Schwarber. The premise of the trade makes sense on the surface, as explained in the article.
With Jon Lester easing into a new chapter of his career, the Cubs need a No. 1 starter and have a deep roster of big-league position players. The Indians have a surplus of top-end starters but are thin at other positions. This is a good match.
Kluber has three years left on his current contract totaling $40.5 million and two club options on the end of that.
Of course, the Cubs would have to send more than Schwarber to make it happen. Doolittle threw out Ian Happ and Albert Almora Jr. as potential additions to the trade. Happ and Schwarber represent two players not crucial to the Cubs' success that haven't always had a clear role with the team. Kluber would be a much-needed addition to the starting rotation.
On the flip side, Schoenfield suggests the Cubs trade Schwarber to Houston for a young pitcher. Two named are Cionel Perez and Framber Valdez. Perez is 22 and made his MLB debut last season out of the bullpen. The Cuban lefty raced through the minors after signing before the 2017 season. Valdez, 25, had a 2.19 ERA in eight appearances (five starts) in his MLB debut with the Astros last year.
MLB
Both pitchers wouldn't bring name recognition for an established player like Schwarber, but would fill a team need. Would the Cubs jump at either of these moves involving Schwarber? The Winter Meetings are just around the corner.
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