Olney: Two of Chicago’s Best Could Be Headed to New York

It's July, and every baseball fan knows what that means...IT'S TRADE SEASON, BABY!

With the trade deadline on the horizon, the rumor mill begins to swirl. The Yankees have already made a move, bringing speedy outfielder back to New York earlier today for a minor league pitcher. The Yankees are likely not done, and neither are the Mets. In our weekly chat with ESPN's Buster Olney, Charlie and I picked the brain of one of the most well-connected reporters in the game about what rumors he's been hearing.

He pointed to Chicago in his answer, and a few players that make a lot of sense in the state of New York. You can listen to our chat above.

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The first name I'm focusing in on is Kris Bryant, and a possible connection with the New York Mets. Look around the diamond at Citi Field (when the team is healthy). What you'll see is a *nearly* complete ball club. The Mets brought in James McCann to be their catcher, and traded for Francisco Lindor to play shortstop. They've developed a stellar right side of the infield, and added Kevin Pillar in center field to anchor a strong outfield.

The one hole is third base, and with the Cubs likely not extending Bryant's contract, the soon-to-be free agent could find new life in New York if he's allowed to play his natural position, which is third base.

The other name from Chicago that I LOVE in New York is Anthony Rizzo, and he's had a connection with the New York Yankees. The Yankees lack a left-handed presence in the middle of their lineup, and desperately lack the upbeat personality that Rizzo brings to the table. His smiling, light-hearted approach to the came could help stimulate a dugout that has been described by fans as lacking energy and passion.

Oh, he also mentioned Craig Kimbrel and a possible reunion with the Red Sox. I figured I'd slip that into this piece, because Kimbrel is one of my favorite players ever. I've always loved closers and their role on a team, so he's always intrigued me.

That's it for now from Buster Olney, but as you know, each new week brings a new set of stories.