Three potential landing spots for Cubs’ Cody Bellinger
The Chicago Cubs have a decision to make.
According to Jesse Rogers from ESPN, Cubs team president Jed Hoyer is ready to put out the “for sale” sign. Those plans could change depending on the Cubs’ performance over the next week, but Chicago faces a tough road with matchups against the Brewers and Royals.
Outfielder Cody Bellinger would be an intriguing option should the Cubs begin to trade players away. There are concerns regarding Bellinger, as he is currently on the injured list with a fractured middle finger on his left hand. Bellinger also has a pair of player options for 2025 and 2026 worth a combined $52.5 million with $7.5 million worth of buyouts. While a trade may be difficult, Rogers opines that a deal is not impossible.
Trading Bellinger may be difficult but it could happen. Let’s take a look at three possible landing spots.
Cleveland Guardians
The Guardians have the third-best record in the majors at 59-40 heading into Tuesday, but that does not mean they are running away with a playoff berth.
The Guardians have an 8-14 record since June 25 and have lost seven of their last 10 games. The offense has struggled, scoring just 67 runs in those 22 games. While improving the rotation may be a priority, Guardians center fielders have produced a combined .217/.316/.345 batting line this season. Adding Bellinger may not solve those pitching woes, but would add another impact bat and Gold Glove caliber outfielder to the lineup.
Seattle Mariners
The Mariners collapsed in historic fashion, losing a 10-game lead to the Astros in just 24 games. Those spiral highlighted how much the Mariners’ offense has struggled, ranking last in the American League in hits and batting average while ranking 14th in runs scored, on-base percentage, slugging and OPS.
Free-agent batters have historically avoided playing in cavernous T-Mobile Park, with Robinson Cano being the last marquee bat the Mariners have signed. While a trade to Seattle may cause Bellinger to decline his player options, he does not have a no-trade clause. The Mariners could get the bat they need to improve their moribund offense as they look to hold on to a playoff berth.
Philadelphia Phillies
According to former MLB general manager Jim Bowden, center field is the top priority for the Phillies. He specifically listed Bellinger among three potential targets who the Phillies are looking into.
Bellinger would provide an instant upgrade in the outfield as the combination of Johan Rojas and Cristian Pache has not been the answer. He is not a perfect fit as the Phillies would have a very left handed lineup, but he would solve their biggest weakness in the batting order. Acquiring Bellinger may be the move to put the Phillies back in the World Series.
