Cubs’ Cody Bellinger Reunion in Danger? Prolonged Negotiations Pose a Problem Amid Off-Season Buzz

This off-season has been a roller coaster ride for MLB teams. On one hand, some teams (the LA Dodgers) made massive moves with their financial muscle. On the other, some (the Chicago Cubs) remained largely reserved. However, after a rather long wait, the Cubs inked a deal with the Japanese left-hander Shota Imanaga. Subsequently, comes the discussion of top-hitter-free-agents. 

Chicago appears poised for a series of offensive signings after their latest Japanese acquisition. Now, with the pitching market more-or-less settled, names such as Cody Bellinger, Matt Chapman, and Rhys Hoskins remain largely available. Are the Cubs hot on their trail to bag one or all of them? 

What’s Causing the Delay?

Wednesday morning, on the Mully & Haugh Show, Jon Heyman shared his perspective that a reunion between Bellinger and the Windy City may or may not remain on the table. His words also shed light on the various facets backing the decision yet to be made on a couple of top options – outfielder/ first baseman. 

While negotiations seem inconclusive, ‘Belli’ can’t be ruled out. This guess is backed by a solid rationale. The 28-year-old, Scottsdale-born was great on his 2023 ‘prove-it’ contract with the Cubs. Not to mention, his skill to play the outfield and first base provided added flexibility to the club. His words were, “Obviously Bellinger did a great job there last year. They’ve obviously also been apart on the contract and talking to other teams. Whether they work it out, can’t say”. While the case for Bellinger-Cubs is strong, it is also likely that they push for Matt Chapman and Rhys Hoskins. 

Following Jeimer Candelario’s departure, the third base gap is yet to be filled. Chapman, who is a Gold Glove-caliber defender with impressive offensive prowess checks all the boxes. His high strike out rate would however, be an area of improvement. Hoskin who skipped the 2023 season after a torn ACL, potentially makes him attainable at a relatively lower price. His power hitting and decent glove would only fuel the offensive potential in the Cubs’ lineup. This first-baseman too could be a great fit. 

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Will There Be A Cody Bellinger- Chicago Cubs Reunion?

Though the Cubs seem to have emerged into the market after their hibernation, they continue to compete with other teams that are eyeing the same players. Keeping that in mind, Heyman further added, “We don’t know what the other teams are offering, for that matter we don’t know what the Cubs are offering, but at this point I can’t say it’s any slam dunk they get Bellinger back”. 

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Whatever the uncertainties are, the Cubs have all three names on their radar. While there has been no definitive conclusion on who they’d sign, the chase goes on. Maybe it is not yet safe to say that Cody Bellinger will move to Chicago. As one continues to guess whether their reunion will happen, it’s the best to wait for the events to unfold.