The Chicago Cubs have decided not to trade pending free-agent Cody Bellinger and are set to keep the star outfielder for the remainder of the season.
ESPN’s Jesse Rogers broke the news, indicating that the Cubs believe they have a legitimate shot at the playoffs and are focusing on strengthening their roster instead.
With a current record of 53-52 and a just-snapped eight-game winning streak, the Cubs are just four games behind the NL Central-leading Cincinnati Reds. Keeping Bellinger is seen as a strategic move to bolster their chances for a postseason berth.
In the midst of an 8-game win streak, the Cubs have reportedly told teams that Cody Bellinger will not be traded, per @JesseRogersESPN. pic.twitter.com/TF4WNnoh0h
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) July 30, 2023
Bellinger, who was named the National League’s Most Valuable Player in 2019 while with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has been enjoying a resurgent season, slashing .315/.368/.540. The 28-year-old outfielder signed a one-year, $17.5-million deal with the Cubs before the start of this season.
The decision to keep Bellinger comes after his challenging performances in the previous seasons. In 2021, he was limited to only 95 games due to injuries, batting a mere .165. However, he showed glimpses of his past brilliance in the postseason, hitting .353 with crucial plays that helped the Dodgers progress.
Bellinger’s struggles continued in 2022 when he hit .210 with 19 home runs, 150 strikeouts, and a .654 OPS in 144 games, leading to the Dodgers ultimately releasing him on November 18. Despite these challenges, the Cubs have seen his potential and are willing to invest in his abilities for the team’s playoff push.
Bellinger’s presence on the Cubs roster adds depth and power to their lineup, boosting their chances in the competitive National League. The outfielder has a remarkable track record, including being named the NL Rookie of the Year in 2017, the NLCS MVP in 2018, and earning two All-Star selections and a Gold Glove in 2019.
Despite his impressive accolades, Bellinger has faced injury setbacks, undergoing right shoulder surgery in November 2020. However, the Cubs decision to retain him indicates their confidence in his ability to regain peak form and contribute to their success on the field.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Cubs will be actively looking to strengthen other areas of their roster to solidify their position in the playoff race.
Do you think the Cubs are making a mistake in not trading Bellinger, considering they would have most likely gotten a nice haul in return for him?