The prevailing belief in Cody Bellinger’s impending free agency was that the Cubs were leading the race to retain the NL Comeback Player of the Year. However, recent developments indicate a potential threat to the Cubs’ chances, with a surprise entry by the Angels into the Bellinger sweepstakes.
On Dodger Talk, David Vassegh shared insights, stating, “Many people assume that he’s gonna sign with the Cubs…but from what I’m being told, the Angels have interest in Cody Bellinger and have had discussions with Scott Boras about Cody Bellinger.”
Vassegh highlighted the Angels’ owner, Arte Moreno’s penchant for significant offensive investments and the team’s need for a left-handed hitting outfielder, making Bellinger an attractive option.
While league reports still position the Cubs as front-runners, eliminating several other teams from contention, the Angels’ newfound interest introduces an element of uncertainty.
MLB Insider Jon Heyman expressed confidence in the Cubs re-signing Bellinger, yet cautioned it’s not a guarantee, adding, “I would think they’re probably the favorites at this moment.”
A potential stumbling block, as reported by Mark Feinsand, is Bellinger’s asking price exceeding $200 million. Vassegh emphasized the risk for the Cubs, stating, “The longer this goes on, I feel like the odds of the Cubs keeping Cody Bellinger go down incrementally each day.” He speculated that Bellinger might not sign until camps open in under a month.
Recalling the Angels’ pursuit of Shohei Ohtani during the offseason, where they were willing to invest but ultimately lost out, raises questions about their approach to meeting Bellinger’s expectations.
The possibility of agent Scott Boras using the threat of losing out on Bellinger to secure a more lucrative deal adds another layer of complexity.
As the situation unfolds, the Cubs face the decision of whether to take the risk or potentially lose out on Bellinger. The outcome remains uncertain, and the impending opening of camps may play a decisive role in the resolution of this free agency saga.
