It's basically a given that Contreras is gone at the deadline now, but now there are even whisperings that they'll ship him out before opening day. Being a small market club is rough, man.
Top 8 guys the Cubs just let walk away (or traded away for pennies) from the 2016 season:
8. Russell--I know he was a domestic abuser and whatnot but still, he was clutch as hell and a lot of fun. 7. Lester--He was cooked by the time he left but hugely important to putting together the team. 6. Arrieta--Less cooked than Lester but way more expensive. They were smart to let him go but man, his 2015 season was incredible. 5. KB--The best player on the team but as hyped as he was, felt like he never quiiiiiiite got there. Plus he never seemed like he really ever planned to re-sign, I think he always resented the service time manipulation at the start of his career. 4. Schwarber--Coming back from injury to be as clutch as he was in 2016 was incredible. 3. Contreras*--This one feels worse and worse as the deadline gets closer. He's an UFA so they're not going to get a ton, he loves being in Chicago and seems like a really likable guy. 2. Baez--See above plus the most exciting player the Cubs have had in my life. Warts and all, one of my favorite Cubs ever. 1. Rizzo--The heart of the team, super likable, and his trade was the start of the breaking of the curse.
