Top 3 Trade Candidates in the NL This Offseason (And Their Possible Destinations)

The trade deadline this season saw the Chicago Cubs dismantle their 2016 World Series team, dealing away Kris Bryant, Javier Baez and Anthony Rizzo. But one core player from the glory years still remains. 

And that's where we begin our look at the top 3 trade candidates from National League teams this offseason. 

1. Willson Contreras, Chicago Cubs

The Cubs still value Contreras, but the 30-year-old will be entering the last year of his contract, and if they can't extend him, Cubs insider Shahadev Sharma believes "they will almost certainly shop him." 

“I love how he plays the game," said GM Jed Hoyer. "I love his talent. Certainly, it’s a very difficult position to find. But I think getting into the details of contract extensions isn’t really a good idea.”

Potential Destinations: Seattle Mariners, New York Yankees

2. Ketel Marte, Arizona Diamondbacks

Yes, the Diamondbacks made it clear at the trade deadline that they had no intention of trading the 27-year-old star 2B/CF. However, as MLB insider Jim Bowden points out, now that the D-Backs are taking stock of just how barren of talent their cupboards are, "many clubs believe they will rethink that position and offer him up for quality prospects to help brighten their long-term future."

Potential Destinations: New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers

3. Josh Bell, Washington Nationals

The 29-year-old struggled out of the gate, but after May 12, had an OPS of .889, and finished with 27 home runs and 88 RBIs. But entering his final year of arbitration, which will likely cost the rebuilding Nationals about $10M, will they be willing to spend that kind of dough, or would they rather continue the rebuild by trying to bring in a nice haul for one of the best power-hitting first basemen around. 

Also, if the DH is instituted in the National League in 2022, that opens up several more teams who'd be interesting in dealing for Bell. 

Potential Destinations: San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, Milwaukee Brewers

Trade Season opens two days after the final game of the World Series, so that window is just about open. 

Photo Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports