Could the Guardians Make a Move for Cody Bellinger Before the Trade Deadline The Cleveland Guardians currently boast the best record in the American League, yet there’s a consensus that improvements could bolster their roster.
Chief among their needs is starting pitching, but enhancing their lineup is also a priority acknowledged by Chris Antonetti, the team’s president of baseball operations. As the July 30 MLB trade deadline approaches, the Guardians are poised to explore all avenues to bolster their roster.
One intriguing possibility on their radar is Cody Bellinger of the Chicago Cubs. The Cubs, languishing in last place in the NL Central, appear destined to sell assets, with Bellinger’s name circulating in trade discussions. Despite signing a lucrative three-year, $80 million extension in February, Bellinger’s future with the Cubs seems uncertain amidst their disappointing season.
Bleacher Report has identified the Guardians as a potential landing spot for the 28-year-old slugger. Bellinger’s offensive prowess could inject much-needed power into Cleveland’s lineup, which has seen inconsistent production, particularly in the outfield where Tyler Freeman has shown promise but lacks Bellinger’s established pedigree.
In the current season, Bellinger has posted a .267 batting average with a .327 on-base percentage and a .416 slugging percentage. He has accumulated nine home runs and 34 RBIs in 304 plate appearances. While these numbers reflect a solid contribution, they fall short of his peak performance, exemplified by his 2023 season where he earned a Silver Slugger award with a .307 batting average, .356 on-base percentage, and .525 slugging percentage.
Bellinger’s career trajectory has been marked by highs and lows. Following his MVP season in 2019 with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he belted 47 home runs, injuries plagued him, affecting his performance in subsequent years. A resurgence in form occurred during his tenure with the Cubs last season, but 2024 has seen a regression in his statistics.
A potential move to Cleveland could potentially reinvigorate Bellinger’s career. Joining a team with playoff aspirations and a supportive environment might provide the impetus for him to rediscover his best form. The Guardians, with their strong organizational structure and competitive roster, could offer Bellinger the platform he needs to thrive once again.
For Cleveland, acquiring Bellinger would not only bolster their offensive capabilities but also add a seasoned player with postseason experience to their roster. His ability to play multiple outfield positions would provide flexibility and depth, crucial elements for a team looking to make a deep playoff run.
As trade discussions intensify in the weeks leading up to the deadline, the Guardians will weigh the potential benefits of adding Bellinger against the costs involved. While his current contract and recent performance may impact negotiations, the allure of acquiring a former MVP and proven slugger could outweigh these considerations for a team with championship aspirations.
In conclusion, the Guardians’ interest in Cody Bellinger underscores their proactive approach to enhancing their roster for the postseason push. Whether a deal materializes remains to be seen, but the potential synergy between Bellinger’s talents and Cleveland’s ambitions could pave the way for an impactful acquisition before the trade deadline.
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