In a surprising turn of events, the Chicago Cubs have reportedly reached an agreement with the talented left-handed slugger, Cody Bellinger, on a three-year, $80 million contract. This comes a year after the Dodgers opted not to extend his contract, paving the way for Bellinger’s remarkable comeback season with the Cubs in 2023.
Bellinger, a former National League Most Valuable Player (2019) and Rookie of the Year (2017), faced a downturn in his performance with the Dodgers in 2021 and 2022, marked by injuries and fluctuations in production. Despite a stellar start to his major league career, the Dodgers chose not to offer him a contract in the 2022 offseason, leading Bellinger to sign a one-year, $17.5 million deal with the Cubs.
The 2023 season proved to be a redemption story for Bellinger, as he delivered an outstanding performance, hitting .307 with 26 home runs, 97 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases. His resurgence in form earned him the Comeback Player of the Year award and put him back in the spotlight for a lucrative contract in free agency.
The reported deal with the Cubs includes opt-out clauses after the first two years, giving Bellinger flexibility to explore a longer commitment if his resurgence continues. Despite concerns about his advanced metrics and questions surrounding the sustainability of his 2023 success, the Cubs seem optimistic about Bellinger’s contribution to the team’s success.
The news of Bellinger’s return to the Cubs was first brought to light by a dedicated Cubs fan, @Lisa_L_Dubbs, who scooped mainstream media by revealing the signing days before it was officially reported. This adds another intriguing chapter to the growing trend of unconventional insiders breaking major MLB news.
The Cubs’ projected Opening Day payroll of $218 million, now featuring Bellinger as the highest-paid player, places them seventh in Major League Baseball. The deal not only solidifies the Cubs’ lineup but also adds depth and versatility with Bellinger’s ability to play center field and first base.
As the Cubs embark on the 2024 season, the return of Cody Bellinger is met with enthusiasm from fans and players alike. The slugger’s impact on and off the field, coupled with his defensive prowess, is expected to play a crucial role in the team’s quest for a postseason berth.
Whether Cody Bellinger can sustain his resurgence and contribute significantly to the Cubs’ success remains to be seen, but the excitement surrounding his return has undoubtedly injected new energy into the Cubs’ fan base. The signing reflects a strategic move by the Cubs’ front office to secure a proven talent while maintaining financial flexibility with the inclusion of opt-out clauses.
In the ever-evolving landscape of MLB free agency, Cody Bellinger’s journey from a Dodgers departure to a lucrative return with the Cubs adds another fascinating chapter to his baseball career. As the Cubs gear up for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Bellinger to see if he can continue his resurgence and help lead the team to postseason glory.