Is the Windy City experiencing the ‘Bellinger Blues’? Despite the crispness of the air of spring training the Chicago Cubs’ lineup remains loaded with cloudiness. What’s the missing piece? Well, it’s the former MVP Cody Bellinger. His protracted negotiation talks have left a gaping hole in the core of the batting order!
On one hand, the Cubs in 2023 flaunted the league’s sixth-highest scoring offense. On the other, a microscopic look at it reveals their true vulnerability. They do not have a solid slugger. And Belli’s departure only amplified this weakness. Sure, their outfield boasts great contributors, however, they lack the fearsome bat that only Cody embodies. So what’s next?
What’s The Cody Bellinger Conundrum All About?
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Joe McEwing, Manager acknowledged the confusion. He indicated that “Solving for wins” doesn’t seem to have re-signing Bellinger on the plate. Rather, the responsibility fell into the hands of internal improvements. But there are a bunch of the following questions. Will Dansby Swanson be able to recoup to his peak form? Will young talents like Nico Hoerner and Michael Busch play as expected? Well, these are not easy questions to answer.
McEwing also suggests that an internal development is what would be the key to attainting a sustainable offense. Nevertheless, it is tough to satisfy fans who crave more than “holding serve.” It’s possible that this exciting rebuild leads to a bright future. However, a stagnant offense does cast a shadow on that.
There is one fix for all these problems – Cody Bellinger, obviously. While he fills the power void, his presence also could buoy the confidence of younger players. Alternatively, Matt Chapman could be the anchor at the hot corner. If stability and reduced pressure on unproven prospects is what they’re looking for, adding an established veteran brings stability.
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Will The Chicago Cubs Be Able To Give the Fans What They Need?
The Cub’s scenario can be summed up as – The end-of-season collapse and managerial shakeup underlined the need for decisive action. On one hand, internal growth is absolutely necessary. On the other relying solely on it could be a dangerous game to play. Whatever their decision may be, it’s worth knowing that fans yearn for a lineup that inspires awe. And not cautious optimism.
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Read More : Cody Bellinger in Free Agency Trouble? Star Outfielder’s Market Shrinks as Scott Boras Awaits Best Deal
So can we say that Bellinger the answer? Maybe. Maybe not. But the longer back and forths of the negotiation go on, the stronger do the ‘Bellinger Blues’ get. Maybe it’s time for the Cubs to play their card. Only time will tell what happens, but one thing is for sure – the Cubbies’ lineup puzzle remains glaringly incomplete.