Cubs Projected to Hold Onto $80 Million Franchise Cornerstone Cody Bellinger This Winter

In a surprising twist this offseason, Chicago Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger decided to exercise his player option for 2024, opting into the final year of his contract rather than testing free agency. Given Bellinger’s rocky 2023 free agency experience, in which he struggled to find a long-term deal after a bounce-back season, his decision to stay put may not come as a complete shock. However, now that he’s back under contract with the Cubs, the organization has reportedly begun to explore the possibility of trading him.

This move has raised eyebrows, and while the Cubs are reportedly weighing their options, it seems likely that if they do move on from Bellinger, they’ll have plenty of suitors. Several teams, including the Cleveland Guardians, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, New York Mets, and Houston Astros, are already rumored to be interested in his services. Even the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies could emerge as potential landing spots for the veteran outfielder.

But should the Cubs actually trade Bellinger? That’s the million-dollar question, and opinions are split on whether such a move makes sense for the future of the franchise.

The Case for Trading Bellinger: Why Move Him Now?

Bellinger’s 2023 season was a strong rebound from the struggles that defined his 2020 and 2021 campaigns. The former National League MVP posted a solid .307/.356/.522 slash line with 26 home runs and 97 RBIs in 2023, providing the Cubs with a powerful bat in the middle of their lineup. But despite that success, the Cubs seem to be at a crossroads when it comes to Bellinger’s future.

On one hand, there’s the fact that Bellinger is entering the final year of his deal and could walk in free agency after 2024. The Cubs are a team that has been building for the future, and if they believe they aren’t going to extend Bellinger, moving him now could net them a solid return of prospects or major league-ready talent.

As Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer noted, there’s also the question of whether Bellinger has enough trade value to make a deal worth it. According to Baseball Trade Values, Bellinger’s surplus value relative to what he’s owed in 2024 is actually negative — sitting at -$8.7 million. This means that, if the Cubs do trade Bellinger, they would likely have to eat some of his salary to facilitate a deal. If the goal is to save money, this trade could partially defeat that purpose.

Still, for a Cubs team that is aiming to contend in the near future, trading away a high-upside, veteran bat like Bellinger could signal that they’re not quite as committed to winning in 2024 as they once seemed. And that may not be the best look, especially with a fanbase that’s eager to see a playoff return.

The Case for Keeping Bellinger: Why the Cubs Should Hold On

From another perspective, the Cubs may be better off holding onto Bellinger for the upcoming season, especially if they plan to compete. Despite his negative trade value, Bellinger is still a very good player with plenty to offer both at the plate and in the field. He’s an experienced veteran who can provide stability in the lineup and has shown the ability to hit for both average and power.

There’s also the argument that moving Bellinger would be a step back for the Cubs when they are positioned to take a step forward. The Cubs have made strides in recent years to rebuild their roster and make it more competitive. Trading away a bat like Bellinger could create a hole in the lineup that’s hard to fill, especially considering his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game.

Additionally, the Cubs’ front office may have a different approach when it comes to team-building in 2024. With the right mix of veteran presence and younger talent, Bellinger could be a key piece in a push for the playoffs. At age 28, he’s still in his prime and could even be a potential trade asset at the deadline if the Cubs are in a strong position to contend. Or, the Cubs could choose to extend him after the season if he continues to perform well, providing them with a long-term option for their outfield.

Potential Trade Destinations: Who Might Make the Call?

If the Cubs do decide to explore trading Bellinger, there will be no shortage of interested teams. Several contenders could make a push to add the versatile outfielder to their roster.

– Cleveland Guardians: The Guardians could use Bellinger’s bat as they look to strengthen their offense and make a deeper push in the AL Central. They’ve long been in need of power production, and Bellinger’s ability to hit for both average and power could fit nicely into their lineup.

– Los Angeles Dodgers: Bellinger spent the first six years of his career with the Dodgers, and a reunion isn’t entirely out of the question. The Dodgers have been known for bringing back former players on short-term deals, and if Bellinger returns to his 2023 form, he could be a valuable piece in their quest for another championship.

– New York Yankees & New York Mets: Both teams have high payrolls and strong ambitions to contend for a title in 2024. The Yankees could use another solid outfield bat to complement Aaron Judge, while the Mets have long been looking for ways to add more star power to their lineup. Bellinger could make sense for either team as they prepare for a postseason push.

– Houston Astros: The Astros are another team that could explore adding Bellinger, particularly if they’re looking for a proven bat in the outfield. Houston has the resources and the potential trade chips to make such a deal work.

– Atlanta Braves & Philadelphia Phillies: Both of these teams have potent offenses, but adding a player like Bellinger could be the final piece to solidifying their respective lineups. The Braves, in particular, could be looking to replace veteran outfielder Eddie Rosario, while the Phillies could look to add Bellinger to their already dangerous group of hitters.

Conclusion: To Trade or Not to Trade?

Ultimately, the decision to trade Cody Bellinger is a tough one for the Cubs. While there’s certainly value in exploring all options, moving a player like Bellinger—who has a solid bat, good defensive skills, and valuable veteran leadership—could set the team back just as they are beginning to round into form.

Bellinger’s 2023 resurgence shows that he can still be a difference-maker, and unless the Cubs are getting an offer that significantly improves their future, it might be best to hold onto him for 2024. If the Cubs are truly aiming to compete and build on their success, Bellinger should be part of that effort.