Chicago Cubs: Trading Cody Bellinger at 2023 MLB trade deadline and pursuing him aggressively in offseason

The 2023 MLB season has been spectacular for Cody Bellinger, the dynamic outfielder for the Chicago Cubs. His remarkable batting stats have made him a true spark plug for the Cubs, contributing significantly to their small success this year. However, with the trade deadline approaching, the Cubs face a difficult decision: should they trade Bellinger and risk losing him in free agency, or should they hold onto him and attempt to negotiate a contract with his agent, Scott Boras?

The Chicago Cubs should boldly trade Cody Bellinger on the 2023 trade deadline and sign him immediately as the season ends.

In the ongoing 2023 MLB season, Cody Bellinger is showcasing an awe-inspiring display of talent, elevating his performance to extraordinary heights. Bellinger is a dominant force at the plate, with a remarkable batting average of .317 and an impressive on-base percentage of .371. His power-hitting prowess is evident through 52 runs, 79 hits, 15 doubles, and 13 home runs, driving in 37 RBI and stealing 12 bases. Additionally, Bellinger’s advanced batting statistics are exceptional, with a slugging percentage of .542 and an OPS of .913, establishing him as one of the league’s most formidable hitters.

As the trade deadline approached, the Chicago Cubs faced a critical decision regarding Cody Bellinger, their star outfielder. Bellinger’s outstanding performance throughout the season had undeniably heightened his trade value, making him an attractive player for contending teams needing offensive firepower. The Cubs recognized that trading Bellinger to such a contender presents a golden opportunity to acquire valuable assets that could strengthen their roster for the future.

Trading Cody Bellinger is a strategic move that could secure a promising future for the Chicago Cubs

However, the Cubs also understand the risks of holding onto Bellinger without securing a long-term contract. Losing him to free agency in the offseason is a looming danger if they choose to retain him without a commitment. The prospect of a massive financial bidding war is daunting, especially given the reputation of Scott Boras for securing lucrative client contracts. The Cubs know navigating such negotiations with Boras would require a careful and tactical approach.

The potential trade of Bellinger also opens the door to strengthening the Cubs’ farm system. By trading him for promising prospects, the team could ensure a sustainable talent pipeline that would serve them well for years. Building a solid farm system is essential to the Cubs’ long-term vision, and trading Bellinger offers a strategic means to achieve that goal.

Despite the trade possibilities, the Cubs recognize the immense value that Cody Bellinger brings to their team. At only 27 years old, Bellinger’s age perfectly aligned with the Cubs’ current core of talented young players. The potential for him to become a long-term centerpiece of the team’s future success is undeniable.

Bellinger’s versatility on the field is another vital factor that endears him to the Cubs. His ability to play multiple positions effectively provides valuable flexibility in their lineup and defensive alignments. This versatility makes him an indispensable asset and further solidifies his position as a spark plug for the team.

Nonetheless, the Cubs are well aware of the challenging task ahead due to the involvement of Scott Boras as Bellinger’s agent. Boras is renowned for driving a hard bargain, and his involvement could make negotiations for a long-term contract complex and demanding. Bellinger’s exceptional performance during the 2023 season undoubtedly bolstered his market value, making the talks even more arduous.

Clear communications are vital, as they needed to express their sincere desire to retain Bellinger as a critical part of their future success. Emphasizing his already-established connection with the team and the fans, the Cubs aim to appeal to Bellinger’s sense of loyalty to the organization.

After the Los Angeles Dodgers non-tendered Cody Bellinger last offseason, the Chicago Cubs saw an opportunity to swing at the talented outfielder. Despite a challenging season with the Dodgers, Bellinger’s potential was evident in his past stats. During the 2022 season, he played in 144 games, collecting 106 hits, including 27 doubles and 19 home runs, while driving in 68 RBI and stealing 14 bases. Although his batting average was .210 and his on-base percentage was .265, his slugging percentage remained a formidable .389, resulting in a solid OPS of .654. The Cubs recognized Bellinger’s abilities as a versatile player, having seen him in multiple positions on the field, and they were hopeful that he could regain his previous form and become a vital asset for their team’s future success.

Moreover, the Cubs prepared to make a competitive offer that reflects Bellinger’s significant contributions to the team and his immense potential for future success. While navigating negotiations with Boras might be challenging, the Cubs must propose a compelling proposition to showcase their commitment to retaining Bellinger.

Trading Cody Bellinger at the 2023 trade deadline might seem difficult. Still, it presents the Chicago Cubs with a unique opportunity to maximize their trade value while strengthening their roster for the future. The Cubs should approach this situation with a well-thought-out strategy, including open communication and competitive contract offers to persuade Bellinger and his agent to remain with the team. With Bellinger’s exceptional talent and the Cubs’ commitment to building a winning team, they have the potential to create a powerhouse that can contend for years to come.