MLB Rumors: Cubs Eyeing Contract Extension With Javier Báez, Anthony Rizzo

Stay up to date with all of the latest MLB news and rumors ahead of the 2021 trade deadline.

The Cubs kicked off their pre-deadline sale on Thursday night with the trade of outfielder Joc Pederson. Chicago is expected to be active on the trade market in the coming weeks. 

Chicago will likely deal slugger Kris Bryant and closer Craig Kimbrel before July 31, per MLB Network's Jon Heyman. But not every marquee Cub is guaranteed to leave by the end of the month. Chicago will reportedly look to sign shortstop Javier Báez and first baseman Anthony Rizzo to contract extensions, with both deals potentially reaching nine figures. While the Cubs are all-but-eliminated from the 2021 playoff race, perhaps a multi-year rebuild isn't on the horizon.

while Kris Bryant, Craig Kimbrel and other Cubs are on the block, there are signs the Cubs will try to lock up Javier Baez and Anthony Rizzo before talking trades for them @MLBNetwork

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 16, 2021

As the Cubs find suitors for their stars, stay up to date with all the latest MLB rumors below:

• The Twins will likely trade outfielder Byron Buxton if they do not reach a contract extension before July 31. (Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic)

• The Nationals are interested in trading for Cubs third baseman and outfielder Kris Bryant. (Jon Heyman, MLB Network)

• The Yankees have discussed trading for Rangers outfielder Joey Gallo. (Jeff Passan, ESPN)

• The Phillies and Nationals are acting as buyers ahead of the 2021 trade deadline. (Jeff Passan, ESPN)