According to reports, Cody Bellinger is going one way when he makes his forthcoming contract choice with the Chicago Cubs overseas.
After another disappointing season on the North Side, the Chicago Cubs will need to have a huge offseason in 2024 after missing the postseason once more. Slugger Cody Bellinger has some decisions to make that will affect the 2025 roster.
In 2023, the 29-year-old agreed to a three-year, $80 million contract with the Chicago Cubs. He has a player option that expires in the third year and an opt-out after the first year. Even though Cody Bellinger isn’t now required to make that choice, a recent rumor indicates that he is leaning in that direction.
According to Ivy League Cubs reporter Jacob Zanolla, Cody Bellinger is “leaning towards opting out” of his Cubs contract:
“A number of sources have told Ivy League Cubs that Cody Bellinger is considering testing free agency this winter and opting out of his current contract with the Chicago Cubs,” Zanolla stated. “The signs are pointing towards what is the right choice for the team and the player, but nothing is set in stone and Scott Boras, Bellinger’s agent, can change his mind at any time.”
“As a manager, it’s amazing to know that you have a player who can play a strong first base, and it’s even better to know that the same player can play an amazing center field.”
Bellinger’s ability to play numerous positions and his defense are two of his strongest traits. In 2019, he was named the National League MVP and received a Gold Glove award for his efforts in center field.
“He is a valuable player on both sides of the ball, but it doesn’t mean the Cubs should keep him on the team. Although he blocks some of the best prospects, he increases the 2025 roster’s talent floor. Additionally, Bellinger makes it much more difficult to obtain a big hitter this offseason. Boras and Bellinger have $52,500,000 left over in the two years left if they choose to opt in and go back to Chicago.
“The Cubs will attempt to qualify for the playoffs in a full season for the first time since 2018, and Bellinger will have to make his official decision in the upcoming weeks, setting the stage for a huge offseason.”
After having a successful 2023 season with the Chicago Cubs, Cody Bellinger chose to sign that contract this past offseason. But because he failed to be consistent and fought with injuries, his 2024 season wasn’t what the Cubs had hoped for.
Bellinger would still owe $52.5 million over two years if he were to opt in. He receives a salary of $26,666,667 a year and must make a decision within the next few weeks. It could be wise for him to accept that offer if he thinks he can negotiate a deal worth more than $27 million from another team.
However, it is a significant “if” for Cody Bellinger.
Cody Bellinger will undoubtedly be greatly impacted by this choice, and the Cubs’ offseason plans do depend somewhat on it. Having to replace one would only increase their list of needs as they continue to look for more assistance for their lineup and a power bat. We’ll have to wait and see if the Cubs front office can succeed this offseason in turning this around.
Nevertheless, Bellinger is among the Cubs’ best hitters.
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