Familiarity breeds comfort which breeds growth. When comfortable, one tends to find more happiness in their work. The Chicago Cubs hope to use that sentiment in their pursuit of Cody Bellinger. The slugger’s career came back to life when he moved to the Windy City. This suitability has kept the fire burning in their negotiations, but can it help in making the deal official? 

Until now the Cubs were running a one-horse race for Bellinger. Despite interest from other teams like Toronto Blue Jays, competition never came close to unseating the North Siders as favorites for the former MVP. But now the Spring Training is near and teams are desperate. So why is it that even after competition possibly getting stronger, the Cubs remain steadfast in their approach? 

Does Cody Bellinger prefer an old flame over a new love?

The struggles of Bellinger during his final years in the Dodgers are still a fresh memory. The former MVP who never hit below 25 home runs was struggling to cross 10. So when he was non-tendered by the Dodgers, it felt like an untimely downfall of a young talent. It was then that the Chicago Cubs gave him a deal and things changed for Belli.

2023 saw Bellinger come back to his best. With proper support from the Cubs ecosystem and coaching staff, the slugger slashed .307/.356/.525/.881. It’s no surprise that MLB Network‘s Jon Morosi stated that “Bellinger found a home in Chicago after struggling mightily near the end of his tenure as a Dodger.”

The insider also pointed out that the Cubs have a place open for Belli. While they have players who can play in Bellinger’s spot, they’re all prospects. So if the slugger does return, he’ll have a position that is his to take. The close relationship between Bellinger and the Cubs coaching staff is another huge point that favors his return to the North Side. 

Watch This Story: Unveiling The Top 5 MLB Icons, Creating Buzz In The Free-Agent Market This Off-Season

After all, Chicago Cubs was where Cody Love found his groove. He knows he can excel in this environment while going to the Blue Jays might be a risky venture. But then, this isn’t a love story, it’s business and that’s where the issue arises. 

The Cubs remain unwilling to meet Scott Boras’ demands

Scott Boras wants at least $200 million for his client and the Cubs aren’t biting that bullet. So it’s a classic Mexican standoff between Jed Hoyer and Boras. There’s a growing speculation that if the deal isn’t stuck soon, the North Siders might pivot to someone like Matt Chapman. At the same time, if the Blue Jays make enough noise, they might be able to sway Bellinger away. 

In the end, there are many different elements to this story. But if one looks at it objectively, the Cubs remain a really good fit for Bellinger. However, with the two being so far away in their asks, it’s a giant struggle to complete their union.

Read more: Cody Bellinger Rumors: Blue Jays Challenge Cubs as Star Outfielder’s North Side Reunion Sees Danger