One card is always hidden – this could be the case with Cody Bellinger and Scott Boras. The slugger’s free agency has been anything but exciting. Though there’s no shortage of links, on the progress front it seems like we’re in the dark ages. The most exciting reports have been the alleged $300 million expectations that Bellinger has. Could his massive asking price doom his free agency?

Bellinger was written off by most before the start of 2023, yet he proved that his tank still had some fuel left. But with doubts still lingering over his long-term form, is there something that can help the former Cubs slugger go near that $300 million mark?

Cody Bellinger – Mr. Versatile 

There’s no denying that three consecutive terrible years can shake the trust of even the hardest believers. Even after a good 2023, the weight of his bad time still holds Cody Bellinger back. Especially because his return to form was different, he’s no longer the heavy hitter of the past. Bellinger chose to adjust his style to favor consistent hits over raw power. This increased his average at the expense of big hits, but there’s more to the slugger.

The greatest strength of Bellinger lies in his defense. Cody Love is a first baseman who also excels in the center as well as on other sides of the outfield. Adding his athleticism to the mix turns Bellinger into a player who can cover multiple gaps of any team. As MLB.com‘s Mark Feinsand said, “That’s extremely valuable”. This is especially true in a market that’s low on position players.

But again the question arises – is $300 million too high? What if it’s a genius business play by super agent Scott Boras? Most insiders and executives expect Bellinger to get a contract that is closer to $200 million. With Boras setting a high number as his starting point, he can ensure that even after a sizable reduction, his client still gets the highest possible contract.

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This move is necessary especially when one looks at the two teams heavily linked to Bellinger.

Linked teams have a treasure chest they can use

Scott Boras knows that the Chicago Cubs and Toronto Blue Jays have money. The fact that the Blue Jays were ready to go completely in for Shohei Ohtani is not lost on him. So he’s ensuring that Bellinger gets a perfect deal. Boras’ biggest trump card could be Toronto’s desperation for a new star.

At the same time, Boras has been commenting on the Cubs not making much of an effort. He has been hinting to them that Bellinger is there if the price is right because the slugger already loves them. Could the Cubs reciprocate this love? Either way, looks like the Bellinger sweepstakes have a long way to go.

Read more: Back to the North Side? Is Cody Bellinger’s Super Agent Scott Boras Pushing for a Cubs Reunion?