According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Cody Bellinger has reached an agreement to rejoin the Chicago Cubs on a three-year deal worth $80 million. The contract includes options for Bellinger to opt-out after the first and second years.
Passan highlighted that despite initial hopes for a competitive market, Bellinger’s agent, Scott Boras, found limited interest, ultimately leading to a favorable deal for Chicago.
The Cubs are undoubtedly pleased with this development as it bolsters their prospects in a National League Central division that appears lackluster on paper.
Bellinger’s career has seen fluctuations since his 2019 National League MVP award, including a one-year prove-it deal last season following a period of struggles.
However, his performance in 2023, boasting a .307/.356/.525 slash line with 26 home runs, 97 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases suggests a potential for increased market demand should he replicate such form with the opt-out option next year.
This signing sets a precedent for other free agents like Blake Snell and J.D. Martinez, who are still seeking contracts with the 2024 season looming. With Bellinger’s deal done, attention now turns to where Snell and Martinez might land.
Snell presents an intriguing case in free agency. Despite concerns over his durability, given his limited innings pitched in previous seasons, the 31-year-old left-hander is the reigning National League Cy Young winner, highlighting his undeniable talent.
It’s surprising to see a pitcher of his caliber, who boasted a league-best 2.25 ERA and 234 strikeouts in 180 innings, still unsigned as March approaches.
Potential suitors for Snell include the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Angels, both in need of pitching reinforcement. The Yankees, in particular, are in a World-Series-or-bust mindset for the upcoming season and have reportedly made offers to Snell. His addition would significantly bolster their rotation alongside Gerrit Cole.
As for Martinez, teams can expect a seasoned hitter primarily suited to the designated hitter role at this stage of his career. Despite rejecting an offer from the San Francisco Giants, Martinez’s potent bat could find a home with the Los Angeles Angels, aiding them in compensating for the departure of Shohei Ohtani.
Alternatively, the New York Mets, lacking offensive firepower from the designated hitter position in 2023, could benefit from Martinez’s prowess.
In summary, Bellinger’s deal with the Cubs sets the stage for further free-agent movements, with Snell and Martinez among the notable names still seeking contracts ahead of the 2024 season.
