In pursuit of new beginnings, Cody Bellinger left the Chicago Cubs this year after giving a fantastic performance in their dugout. His form in 2023 can be considered a comeback from the troubles he previously faced with the LA Dodgers. Bellinger chose free agency this year after proving he’s still got it. The slugger was reportedly on the lookout for better teams, and it looks like there might be a faint chance of him coming back home.
The Cubs are reportedly in talks of being reunited with Cody Bellinger. However, a top MLB insider thinks that Bellinger’s current predicted contract value might pose a threat to the team’s affordability factor.
Top MLB insider says the Cody Bellinger and Cubs reunion is facing a financial dilemma
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MLB insider Sahadev Sharma was seen discussing the prospective reunion of Cody Bellinger and the Cubs franchise in an X video shared by MLB Network today. According to him, the Cubs are very likely to seek a reunion given Bellinger’s history on the team. The slugger bonded well with the teammates and executives of the clubhouse, and he’s proven why he deserves another chance.
"I think both sides would love a reunion."@sahadevsharma speaks on the likelihood Cody Bellinger re-signs with the Cubs and which areas the organization will look to address this offseason. pic.twitter.com/KxciJtt2QA
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) December 13, 2023
However, the only factor that poses a threat to the prospective reunion is Bellinger’s current asking price. In Sharma’s words, “Right now, I just don’t think that Jed Hoyer is gonna pay that $200 million plus for Cody Bellinger.” Considering the recent price Cody Love is setting on his skills, the Cubs’ dream looks distant.
According to reports, Bellinger is seeking a deal that goes to $300 million or more. Considering his age of 29 years, it makes no sense that the Cubs would pick him up on an eight- or ten-year-long term. There are factors other than finances that are in play as well.
Why does the rumored comeback look so far away?
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Bellinger refused the Cubs extension offer worth $20.325 million earlier this year. He also has a history of injuries, which makes a decade-long contract seem out of the question. The Cubs would rather benefit from focusing on cheaper or younger free-agent prospects.
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According to a Cubs Insider report, the team is currently looking at players like Rhys Hoskins and Matt Chapman. They are also looking into trade prospects like Tyler Glasnow, who come with a shorter and more affordable list of needs compared to Bellinger.
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Although his second run at a Cubs future seems uncertain as of now, nobody can say what will go down between the slugger and the team until the free agency phase is over. Do you think Chicago can land it’s star slugger again?
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