Is Cody Bellinger the Cubs’ Final Piece? North Side Aims for Postseason Following 2023 Disappointment

Spring Training is just around the corner. The Chicago Cubs have addressed multiple key needs during the offseason. Some popular ones are the addition of Shota Imanaga who bolsters the rotation, Michael Busch, and Yency Almonte who offer great offensive reinforcements. However, a crucial spot remains open. 

Speaking of crucial spots, the bullpen and the heart of the lineup are currently vacant for the Cubs. If there is one piece of the puzzle that can fit into both spots, it would be Cody Bellinger. But how viable is that option? 

Cody Bellinger and Bullpen – Can the Cubs Fill Their Final Needs of 2024?

Bellinger’s return to Wrigley Field appears to be inevitable. There have been social media whispers, not to mention Jed Hoyer’s cryptic hints. His appearance in the lineup, specifically as a 3-hole or cleanup hitter, could provide the much-needed power and production. After his resurgence in the season of 2023, he presents both short-term relief and long-term potential.

The lack of a reliable left-handed arm in the Cubs’ bullpen is not hidden. It’s been quite a persistent issue, rather. If not, the 28-year-old, the club could turn toward prospects. The young Luke Little offers promise, however, he is not the only name. The two potential targets that have emerged are Scott Alexander and Tanner Scott.

Alexander is a veteran with experience across multiple MLB teams. He boasts a solid ERA of 2.78 during his Los Angeles Dodgers days. However, his 2023 performance with the San Francisco Giants wasn’t all that stellar. Him being a free-agent could make him an economical option.

Scott, on the other hand, is a breakout star for the Miami Marlins in 2023. Despite his stellar stats, his steeper cost due to team control makes him a less affordable choice.

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The Chicago Cubs’ Bottom Line 

The Cubs’ postseason hopes rely on filling these aforementioned crucial gaps. While Bellinger’s addition would significantly enhance the offense, a solid left-handed reliever like Alexander or Scott would strengthen the bullpen.

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Eventually, the Windy City’s dominance depends on how much they’re willing to spend to fill up these gaps. The ideal scenario would be to secure Bellinger and a reliable southpaw. With that, they would be well-positioned to compete for the division title in 2024.