Kris Bryant Signs Huge $6.7 Million Bonus Deal with Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs signed first-round pick Kris Bryant to a huge $6.7 million contract, inking the deal two days before the deadline.

"

#Cubs, 1st-rder Kris Bryant agree on $6,708,400. San Diego 3B, BA College Player of Year, massive power, also good patience & arm. #mlbdraft

— Jim Callis (@jimcallisBA) July 10, 2013"

The deal is larger than what No. 1 overall pick Mark Appel ($6.35 million) got from the Houston Astros, but it was also the assigned slot value for the No. 2 pick.

Bryant was widely considered the best hitter in the draft. He batted .329 with 31 home runs and 62 RBI, walking one-third more (66/44) than he struck out.

"

Way to go Jed! Locked up Kris Bryant, now time to start playing!!

— Drew Snyder (@snydesdale) July 10, 2013"

"

huge relief!! Knew today was quiet for a reason.“@CubsDen: Very nice to look at @BaseballAmerica Draft Database and see Kris Bryant in bold!

— Les Strohkirch (@TheCubsGuy) July 10, 2013"

Bleacher Report MLB Prospects writer Mike Rosenbaum believes that Bryant has the tools to stay at third base in the big leagues and is someone who could be an occasional all-star.

By signing Bryant, the Cubs can start building towards the future.

With Javier Baez, Albert Almora, Jorge Soler and Brett Jackson all looking to make it to the big leagues in 2014 or 2015, the Cubs have a good core of offensive players to build around.

Let's not forget about Anthony Rizzo, rounding out the top six in their lineup by the time the end of 2015 rolls around.

Now, if only they could get their pitching straight and they'd be good.