The Cubs’ dismantling is complete.
Chicago’s NL squad agreed to send Kris Bryant to the San Francisco Giants ahead of MLB’s trade deadline on Friday, finishing off a busy day that saw fellow Cubs Anthony Rizzo, Craig Kimbrel, and Javier Baez dealt away.
For their troubles, Chicago reportedly received outfielder Alexander Canario and righty Caleb Kilian from the Giants.
Bryant was one of the biggest names on the market this week, linked to numerous teams as the deadline approached. The four-time All-Star brings versatility to the Giants — he can slot in for Evan Longoria at third or play any spot in the outfield — while carrying a 267/.358/.503 slash line with 19 doubles, 18 homers, 51 RBI, 58 runs, four steals and 2.1 WAR.
The 29-year-old was reportedly in the Cubs’ dugout when he got the bittersweet news of the trade. Supposed video of the moment shows Bryant cracking a smile before embracing a nearby coach. Things quickly became emotional as the slugger teared up after learning that he would be leaving the place he had called home for seven seasons.
Drafted by Chicago in 2013, Bryant was Rookie of the Year and MVP in consecutive seasons and was a key to the drought-breaking 2016 World Series title.