In a surprising turn of events, Cody Bellinger, the talented outfielder/first baseman, has become a free agent after declining his part of a mutual team/player option with the Chicago Cubs. At 28 years old, Bellinger aims to secure a new contract that offers both increased length and annual value. Having showcased a remarkable comeback season with the Cubs, Bellinger's performance has been nothing short of outstanding. However, there are concerns regarding his recent decline in performance, making the decision to sign him to a long-term and expensive contract a risky proposition. In this article, we delve into the complexities surrounding Cody Bellinger's free agency status and explore the potential outcomes that lie ahead.
During the 2023 season, Bellinger demonstrated his exceptional skills by hitting an impressive .307 with 26 home runs and 87 RBIs. This exemplary performance earned him accolades such as the Rookie of the Year, Silver Slugger, and Gold Glove in the past. Furthermore, Bellinger has been named an All-Star twice, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier player. Undoubtedly, his recent resurgence has attracted the attention of not only the Cubs but also several other teams in search of a game-changing talent.
While the Cubs may be interested in retaining Bellinger with a long-term contract, there is an air of uncertainty regarding the consistency of his future performance. Teams must weigh the rewards of his remarkable comeback against the potential risks associated with signing him to a lucrative deal. Bellinger's recent decline in performance raises questions about which version of the player teams can expect to see going forward. It is crucial for organizations to carefully evaluate the potential return on investment when considering a contract with Bellinger.
In a surprising move, the Los Angeles Dodgers did not tender a contract offer to Bellinger, thus making him a free agent. Despite being the 2019 National League MVP, the Dodgers decided not to extend a contract offer to Bellinger. However, it is worth noting that he still has the option to re-sign with the team. This decision adds another layer of intrigue to Bellinger's free agency, as the possibility of returning to the team that nurtured his early career remains on the table.
Despite concerns surrounding Bellinger's batted ball metrics, the Chicago Cubs are expected to make a strong push for a long-term contract with the star utility player. Bellinger's exceptional season, which earned him the NL Comeback Player of the Year award and Silver Slugger nominations, has undoubtedly caught the attention of the Cubs' front office. However, negotiations for a new contract may not be straightforward, as other teams are likely to express interest in acquiring the services of this talented player.
Cody Bellinger's free agency status has opened up a world of possibilities for the talented outfielder/first baseman. With a remarkable comeback season behind him, Bellinger has become one of the most sought-after free agents in Major League Baseball. However, the risks associated with his recent decline in performance cannot be overlooked. As the Cubs and other teams vie for his signature, it remains to be seen which organization will secure the services of this exceptional player. One thing is for certain: Cody Bellinger's free agency journey promises to be an intriguing and pivotal moment in his career.
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