The Leadoff Man

July 30, 2021, marked a significant day for the Chicago Cubs as they traded Kris Bryant to the San Francisco Giants in exchange for Alexander Canario and Caleb Kilian. I remember exactly where I was when the trade notification popped up on my phone—I was crushed. That’s the emotional rollercoaster of being a Cubs Superfan.

Three years later, we're reflecting on this trade's impact. Did the Cubs come out on top, or are the Giants the real winners? Let's dive into the careers of Bryant, Kilian, and Canario to find out if anyone can be considered a winner.

Kris Bryant's Rollercoaster Journey Since Leaving the Cubs

Kris Bryant has had an eventful career since being traded from the Cubs in 2021, with both a high and a bunch of lows.

Kris Bryant’s move to the San Francisco Giants in July 2021 was significant. He finished that season strong, helping the Giants achieve a remarkable 107-win season and a division title. Bryant's versatility shone through as he played multiple positions and contributed significantly both offensively and defensively. In the NLDS against the Dodgers, his crucial home run was a highlight, though the Giants ultimately fell short.

Following the 2021 season, Bryant signed a lucrative seven-year deal with the Colorado Rockies. However, his performance since has been mixed. Injuries and the challenges of adjusting to Coors Field have somewhat hampered his productivity, although his power numbers remain solid. Despite these setbacks, Bryant's versatility, power, and leadership continue to make him a valuable player. He remains a fan favorite and a respected figure in the baseball community.

Caleb Kilian: A Tale of Potential and Inconsistency

Caleb Kilian has shown potential but has struggled with consistency since joining the Cubs.

Caleb Kilian’s career with the Cubs has been a rollercoaster. Acquired in the 2021 trade for Kris Bryant, Kilian started the 2022 season with Triple-A Iowa and made his MLB debut in June 2022. He impressed initially, fanning six Cardinals in five frames, but struggled with control in subsequent outings, walking 10 batters in 6.1 innings. Kilian ended the season in Triple-A, where command issues persisted.

In 2023, Kilian continued to shuttle between Iowa and Chicago, showing flashes of potential but struggling with consistency, posting a 12.42 ERA in six games. Now 27, Kilian's future with the Cubs remains uncertain. He’s currently on a rehab assignment after a shoulder injury, working out of the bullpen, which may be a new role for him moving forward. For Kilian to secure a permanent spot on the roster, significant improvement is needed.

Get to know a little more about Caleb Kilian here. I know my wife is going to love him like she still loves Kris Bryant!

Alexander Canario: Power Hitter with Promise

Alexander Canario's power and speed show promise, but he needs refinement to become a major contributor.

Alexander Canario, a promising outfielder acquired in the Kris Bryant trade, has displayed significant power and speed. Splitting his 2024 season between the minors and majors, Canario hit .243 with an .850 OPS in the minors and .280 with a .797 OPS in the majors. His raw power is evident, and he shows potential for high home run numbers, but he needs to improve his batting average and plate discipline.

Ranked as the Cubs' 12th-best prospect, Canario’s future is bright. However, with established outfielders like Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki ahead of him, and Owen Caissie potentially locking down a corner outfield spot, Canario will need to continue refining his game to secure a consistent role. His recent performance has been promising, but more development is needed.

The Closer

Reflecting on the 2021 trade deadline, it’s still too early to declare a definitive winner. The Giants got immediate returns with Kris Bryant, helping them to a division title in 2021. However, Bryant’s tenure in San Francisco was short-lived, and his subsequent performance with the Rockies hasn’t met expectations.

On the Cubs’ side, Caleb Kilian has shown potential but struggled with consistency, and his role remains uncertain. Alexander Canario’s power and speed are promising, but he needs more refinement and opportunity to become a significant contributor. Injuries have also played a role in both players' development.

Overall, this trade seems to be a push. Neither side has clearly come out ahead, with each team experiencing both gains and setbacks. As we look to the future, the development of Kilian and Canario will be key in assessing the long-term impact of this trade. For now, Cubs fans can remain hopeful that these young talents will eventually make their mark on the big stage.