With the World Series coming to a close, the off-season is upon us. As teams search for potential prospects with an eye to the future, the market is warm for speculation. As each team assesses their squad and plans for the next season, many players are at the center of the discussion.

One of the sought-after commodities is former Chicago Cubs outfielder and first baseman Cody Bellinger. In what could be best described as a middling season for the Cubs, Bellinger was impressive. And now, with him being a free agent, he’s fully in the spotlight.

Who is Cody Bellinger: His ethnicity, parents, girlfriend, and family

Cody Bellinger is an American MLB player who has made a name for himself through his incredible career. He was born on July 13, 1995, in Scottsdale, Arizona, the middle child of Jennifer and Clay Bellinger. His mother, Jennifer Bellinger, works as a cabi stylist, and his father, Clay Bellinger, also had a successful baseball career.

Cody, who started his career with the LA Dodgers, has been the 2017 NL Rookie of the Year. The 2019 NL MVP also has an older sibling in his family, Ashlee Bellinger, who is a psychology graduate and an accomplished volleyball player. Ashlee played for Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, California, and is an avid supporter of her younger brother?s baseball journey.

Apart from them, Cody Bellinger has another aspect of his personal life: his relationship. The 28-year-old is reported to be in a relationship with Melissa Perez, a law enforcement student at the University of Texas at Austin. Although the exact origin of their relationship is still unknown, Melissa Perez is also involved in social causes. She is a volunteer with American Law, providing pro bono legal services to immigrants in Texas.

Was his father also a baseball player?

Cody?s father, Clay Bellinger, had his own impressive baseball career. He was a second-round pick of the San Francisco Giants in 1989 and made his MLB debut with the New York Yankees a decade later. He pitched for the Yankees from 1999 to 2001, then played for the Anaheim Angels and Baltimore Orioles.

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Clay Bellinger, like his son, was known for his versatility, helping out in various capacities for the Yankees. He played in 181 regular-season games with the Yankees, hitting.193, and appeared in 19 more postseason games. One of the most memorable moments of his career came in Game 2 of the 2000 World Series against the New York Mets when he made a crucial catch over the left field wall. Upon retiring, he became a mentor to his son, Cody.

What role does his family play in his life?

Family support is often key to an athlete?s success, and Cody Bellinger?s family has been instrumental in his journey. Cody?s mother, Jennifer Bellinger, played a pivotal role in his life. Currently living in Chandler, Arizona, his sister Ashlee is a self-professed Texas Rangers fan who takes an active interest in Cody’s career.

Being religious, god-fearing folks, the family is an active member of the community. The Bellingers are affiliated with The Grove Christian Missionary Church in Chandler. Ashlee is active in the ministry, and their mother, Jennifer, works as a pastor for children at church. Family support and strong relationships have played an important role in Cody?s career and life, and it is evident that his upbringing has played a part in it.

An overview of how the Bellinger family continues to transform many lives

Apart from being active in the community and the church, the family also contributes in other ways. Cody?s mother, Jennifer, founded the Bellinger Family Foundation. The org is a noble cause formed on account of a mission. The foundation primarily focuses on homelessness and mental health. It has also partnered with the ?Uncorked for a Cause? program, wherein it uses its wine business to host fundraising events.

Apart from that, the institution has also partnered with various other organizations, like the LA Dream Center, on projects such as ?Jack?s House?. As charity begins at home, Cody?s family values have always been at the forefront, which is a reason for his success.

What?s next for the Chicago Cubs star?

When the 2023 season ended, news surfaced that Cody Bellinger had agreed to cancel his mutual option with the Cubs, officially becoming a free agent. Just before this season, after the Dodgers did not consider him, Bellinger signed a one-year, $17.5 million deal with the Chicago Cubs. His goal was to put together a memorable enough performance for a shot at free agency. The 2x All-Star scored 26 homers with a .307 average in a bid to prove himself. Although a left knee injury sidelined him for a month, he did showcase his immense talent.

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As a free agent, Bellinger is now ready to explore the market, with the Giants, Yankees, and Mariners potentially competing for his services. While the Yankees appear to be in the lead, it?s only a matter of time before we see the left-hander in a new jersey. It will be interesting to see how the story pans out and if the Bronx ultimately decides on Bellinger?s name.

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