Phillies Late Candidates for Cody Bellinger? Star Outfielder’s Sweepstakes Evolve Amidst Prolonged Talks

Are Cody Bellinger and his agent Scott Boras about to witness a dream scenario? One of the biggest worries for the agent was the apparent lack of competition for his client. This gave an advantage to the Chicago Cubs, who remained adamant on their strict pricing. Having competition was necessary and the City of Brotherly Love might just have opened their arms for them. 

The Philadelphia Phillies’ offseason has fizzled out after a bright start. While the front office swears by its youth, there are growing speculations that the Fightin’ Phils can enter the free agent market again. For a team that came so close to World Series glory for two consecutive years, doing something game-changing is required. Luckily for them, doors are open to make a splash.

The Phillies slowly turn into a “Sleeper”

The Phils were the first ones to make a major deal this offseason after they signed Aaron Nola to a 7-year, $172 million contract. But things have been silent ever since, partly because the team is already heavily built and partly because of the huge influx of young blood in their ranks. But there are still signs of life in this Philadelphia giant, reports Bob Nightengale of USA Today. 

“Several executives think the Philadelphia Phillies could be a sleeper for one of the remaining marquee free agents in starter Jordan Montgomery or center fielder Cody Bellinger,” said the insider. Following that, he noted how Bellinger’s presence would bolster the Phillies’ defense and give them even more batting power. Above all, his presence would increase the balance in their lineup.

To watch Bryce Harper play with Cody Bellinger certainly sounds like an exciting prospect! Despite the pitching being an area of concern, one needs to remember the primary reason for the Phillies’ loss in the NLCS was their hitters losing their form. An amazing lefty like Bellinger would provide added coverage to the Phils.

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But then there was one sentence in Nightengale’s report that shows that this deal is far from being done. 

The cost of Cody Bellinger once again becomes a factor 

The Insider quipped: “Yet, unless their price-tag drop, the Phillies plan to remain patient.” So once again, the ball is in the court of Bellinger and Boras. Despite their interest in the slugger, the bucks always stop at his $200 million-plus asking price. Neither the Cubs nor the Phillies seem willing to pay up that amount for the star. Is a price decrease likely? 

If one knows anything about Boras, he can wait for as long as possible if it means getting his clients the best deal. He waited till March before letting Harper sign a contract in 2019. Would it be surprising if he chooses the same strategy for Bellinger as well?

Read More: Amidst Cubs’ Cody Bellinger Talks, Will the North Siders Strike a Balance Between Youth Development and Playoff Hopes?