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Agent: Cubs declined Rizzo's desire to talk extension

Nuccio DiNuzzo / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Anthony Rizzo is under contract with the Chicago Cubs for the next two years, but his future is currently in doubt beyond that time.

Rizzo's agent, Marc Pollack, revealed Wednesday that the Cubs are not offering the All-Star first baseman a contract extension despite his desire to get a deal done.

"The Cubs have informed us that they will not be offering Anthony an extension at this time," Pollack told ESPN's Jesse Rogers. "Anthony has let his desire to be a Cub for life known to the organization. Although we do not know what the future holds, a deal to make that happen will not be addressed now."

Rizzo's seven-year deal that he signed in 2013 contains two $14.5-million club options, the first of which was exercised by Chicago early this offseason. Assuming the team does the same next year without inking him to a new deal, the infielder will reach free agency after the 2021 campaign.

Overall, change is expected for the Cubs this winter following their disappointing finish in 2019, as they're said to be aggressively pursuing trades that could involve star third baseman Kris Bryant or catcher Willson Contreras. Rizzo's name has been mentioned as a possibility to be moved, although Bryant and Contreras are seen as the more likely candidates, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan.

General manager Jed Hoyer did tell Rogers that his team is talking extensions with certain players, but he refused to reveal which ones.

Rizzo has been a rock at first base for the Cubs since joining the team in 2012. Over his eight years with the team, the 30-year-old has made three All-Star appearances while winning three Gold Gloves, a Platinum Glove, a Silver Slugger, and the 2017 Roberto Clemente Award in recognition of his sportsmanship and community work.

He also earned a place in franchise lore for his starring role on the Cubs' 2016 World Series championship team, their first title in 108 years.

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