Jeff Passan claims that the Cubs will likely trade several key players before the MLB trade deadline. (1:04).CHICAGO -- As Friday's 4 pm.m. deadline approaches, the Chicago Cubs' teardown has begun. ET MLB trade deadline approaches. Joc Pederson (Atlanta outfielder) and Andrew Chafin (Oakland reliever) were already moved. However, there are still a few players available who could be the next to go in the coming days.These names include Kris Bryant, Javier Baez and Anthony Rizzo, who are both homegrown players. Craig Kimbrel, the all-world closer, and Ryan Tepera are both setup men. Zach Davies is a veteran starting pitcher. All players will be free agents after the season ends. Jed Hoyer, president of baseball operations, is extremely popular right now.As the Cubs' winning streak draws to a close, here's what's happening with these players.Craig KimbrelKimbrel did something he's done many times in his career: get in trouble and then shut down the opposition. He allowed the Cincinnati Reds' first two batters to reach the ninth in a tie game on Monday night before striking out.The top baseball teams are interested in a closer with a 0.49 ERA and just two blown saves. He has been a great closer after a difficult stretch in his career.He could be anywhere: The Dodgers may need him more than any other team right now. Los Angeles had surrendered the second-most runs in the National League's ninth inning. L.A.'s record of 1-10 in extra innings may be a little shaky due to current rules but it is still very telling. Kenley Jansen, the closer, has lost five saves this season -- three of them since the All-Star break. The Dodgers need to upgrade their bullpen if they want to be champions again.There are also options for the Red Sox and Astros, as well as the Padres.Kris BryantCould this be the week Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo are teammates with the Cubs? Rich von Biberstein/Icon SportswireBryant had a strong start to the season but he has regained his momentum. After being out of last week's game due to hamstring fatigue Bryant has been back in the lineup over half the time. He has posted a July slash line of.304/.400/.500. Bryant, when healthy, is still a dangerous hitter.He could be anywhere: The Mets are one of a few teams that is interested in the versatile player. At least three of the Cubs' last three series have seen scouts. They have also had scouts attend the Rays' series, but that was before and following their trade for Nelson Cruz. Bryant's versatility means that Bryant could play anywhere on the diamond, so it wouldn't surprise if there were a few interested teams. Many believe that the Giants might be one of these teams.The Cubs may be able to pick up a large portion of his $6.5 million salary depending on where he goes. This will allow them to get a better prospect return. Similar was the case with Adam Frazier, who Pittsburgh traded to San Diego this week. This concept could also be applied to a Kimbrel deal.Bryant could remain with the Cubs beyond the deadline. Bryant may be offered a qualifying offer but declines it and the Cubs receive compensation. Although industry sources are divided on Bryant's fate, the conversation is picking up as the deadline nears.Anthony RizzoThe veteran first baseman hasn't had the best contract years, but he is showing signs of breaking out of his season-long slump. Rizzo scored in back-toback games this week and his OPS for July is near.800.MLB Trade Deadline Tracker July 30, is fast approaching. This is the latest buzz, reactions to completed deals, and what you need to know about each team. PassanESPN's Buster Olney reports that Rizzo has been in discussions with both the Red Sox and Cubs about returning to the team who drafted him. However, it is likely that he will remain with the Cubs until the deadline. Hoyer won't just give up one of the most beloved Cubs of his era. The possibility of Rizzo's return likely won't excite anyone.Rizzo could also be offered a qualifying offer if the Cubs continue to work with him on a long-term deal.Rizzo stated Monday that "We don't know what's going on." "It's been almost four years since [all the talk] began. This could be it. That's what we'll have to face when it happens."Javier BaezBaez has not been the subject of much trade talk. Most speculation is about him being traded and playing second base for a contender. Although the idea of Baez moving to Chicago to play for the White Sox would be a big deal in Chicago, there hasn’t been much interest. Baez is enjoying a Baez-like season, with lots of home runs (22) and plenty of strikeouts (1130).Play 1:20 Baez allows Reds to hear it after walking Cubs off 9th Javy Baez scores the winning run for the Cubs in bottom of the ninth. He then gives Amir Garrett an earful.Baez is the best option to stay put and sign a long-term contract with the Cubs. He will be free in November. Both sides used to be close right before the pandemic. Talks should resume after the deadline for trade.Other people who might be dealtRyan Tepera, the reliever, is receiving a lengthy look from scouts. The White Sox and Phillies were present for recent games. Tepera was a Toronto native for five years before joining Chicago Cubs. Zach Davies, the starting pitcher, might be part in the arms race to the west. It's possible that he will return to the Padres -- the team he played last season. Davies could be the Dodgers' answer to their uncertainty about their rotation -- even though he is only a back-ofthe-rotation guy for a contender.For contenders who want to add depth to their rosters before the deadline, Jake Marisnick outfielder and Dan Winkler reliever are good options.
