A little over a week ago, several reporters revealed Cody Bellinger’s new destination: the Chicago Cubs are taking a chance on the former 2019 National League MVP on a one-year deal.
The Cubs are going to pay him $17.5 million to play the 2023 season with them, but the deal has more substance to it according to MLB insider Robert Murray.
“Breakdown of Cody Bellinger’s one-year, $17.5 million contract with the Chicago Cubs, per source: 2023: $12.5 million. 2024: Mutual option for $25 million ($5 million buyout). Incentives: $1 million for Comeback Player of the Year,” Murray wrote on Twitter.
It’s hard to see the mutual option being exercised by both parties, though.
If Bellinger actually has a rebound season, the Cubs will likely exercise their part of the option but the player will likely test the market hoping to strike a long-term deal next offseason.
If the player keeps struggling, the Cubs won’t even touch their part of the mutual option.
In other words, as it always happens, Bellinger’s future with the Cubs beyond 2023 will be decided and determined by his own performance.
The Cubs Are Taking A Chance On The Former MVP
The Cubs are a good landing spot for Bellinger at this point.
He still has that sweet left-handed swing, and Wrigley Field usually favors hitters.
Bellinger hit .210/.265/.389 with 19 home runs and 14 stolen bases.
His .654 OPS was highly disappointing, though.
Bellinger has been struggling for three years now, and is far from the form that made him a feared slugger between 2017 and 2019.
He remains a strong defensive center fielder, though, and can also play first base.
He is a nice gamble for the Cubs as they try to return to prominence and contention.