The Chicago Cubs, after a patient start to MLB free agency, are now making significant moves to bolster their roster. Japanese pitching sensation Shota Imanaga and seasoned reliever Hector Neris are poised to strengthen the team’s pitching staff, addressing the late-season struggles of 2023. However, there’s still a need to enhance the Cubs’ lineup.
One potential solution for this could involve a reunion with former Cubs player Cody Bellinger, although fans will have to exercise patience. According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, multiple sources in the baseball industry have identified the Cubs as the most likely destination for Bellinger. Still, there’s no concrete indication that Bellinger has made a decision about his next team.
The Cubs are the most likely landing spot for Cody Bellinger, multiple people in the baseball industry told me this week, although there is no indication that Bellinger is close to choosing a team. @MLBNetwork @670TheScore
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) January 30, 2024
Even before the official start of the offseason, it was evident that predicting Bellinger’s future would be challenging. His history of ups and downs, including an All-Star performance in 2023, created an air of uncertainty. Teams are cautious, fearing that Bellinger might revert to previous struggles, potentially becoming a costly investment.
After winning the National League MVP in 2019, Bellinger’s career took a downturn due to injuries and extended batting slumps. His All-Star status seemed in jeopardy, but the Cubs took a chance on him with a low-cost, low-risk deal last offseason. In 2023, Bellinger made a significant comeback, hitting .307 with 26 home runs and 97 RBIs, setting the stage for a potentially lucrative contract.
As the baseball world holds its breath, Chicago appears committed to outlasting the competition and hopes that Cody Bellinger will choose to remain with the team where he resurrected his career. With Spring Training less than a month away, the anticipation continues to build in the Windy City.