The Cody Bellinger free agency saga continues, and with it, the battle of wits between Chicago Cubs President Jed Hoyer and super-agent Scott Boras. Is baseball’s most notorious dealmaker finally facing a worthy adversary?

Hoyer’s calculated approach and Boras’ unwavering demands have created a captivating stalemate, leaving fans wondering: will Bellinger ultimately don the Cubbie Blue once again? And more importantly, who will emerge victorious in this high-stakes game?

Jed Hoyer, known for his data-driven team-building approach, seems unwilling to overpay for Bellinger’s services, despite his 2023 resurgence. As a Cubbies Crib report notes, “Hoyer is playing the right cards regarding the future of the Chicago Cubs.” 

He understands the risk of locking into a lengthy, expensive contract—something rival teams have regretted in recent seasons. This measured strategy puts him in a “win-win situation”—he either lands Bellinger at a reasonable price or maintains the financial flexibility to pursue other upgrades.

Scott Boras, with his characteristically aggressive negotiation style, initially set a steep price for Cody Bellinger—something north of $200 million, per several market reports. However, according to insider Bob Nightengale, a lack of serious offers from other teams suggests Boras may have overestimated Bellinger’s market value.

Read More: Billionaire Cubs Owner and Scott Boras Exchange Words, Cody Bellinger Sweepstakes Fire up Amidst Prolonged Negotiations

The Cubs appear to be his client’s best—and perhaps only—landing spot. As Cubbies Crib astutely points out, “Boras is holding out to get the best possible price for his client, even if he knows it will be with the Chicago Cubs.”

Cody Bellinger’s Desire and the Cubs’ History

While fans may grow impatient, President Hoyer remains unfazed. Recognizing that Boras has limited leverage, the Cubs can afford to play the waiting game. With each passing day without a serious offer, Bellinger’s price tag will likely drop.

It’s a classic negotiation tactic, and Hoyer seems to be mastering it. As Cubbies Crib points out, “It’s a fantastic point that it would be highly unwise for the Cubs to outbid themselves with Bellinger not receiving any other offers.”

It’s worth noting that Cody Bellinger has expressed a desire to remain with the Cubs, giving Hoyer additional leverage. Industry reports say that he “would rather play with the Cubs than once again start anew elsewhere.”

Furthermore, the Cubbies have a history of avoiding exorbitant long-term deals, adding another layer of pressure on Scott Boras to reconsider his initial demands. This complex dance between Hoyer and Boras is far from over. But who holds the ultimate advantage?

Read More: MLB Updates: Cody Bellinger Set to Explore Free Agency Options? Cubs Stalemate Continues Amidst Spring Training

As of now, the scales seem to tip in Jed Hoyer’s favor. His deliberate, calculated approach and apparent unwillingness to overpay could force Boras to compromise. If Hoyer’s patience pays off, he may not only land Cody Bellinger at a favorable deal but also outmaneuver one of baseball’s most formidable agents—a win that would resonate throughout the entire sport.