Ex-NL MVP makes big free agency decision
Apr 28, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Cody Bellinger (24) returns to the dugout after the third inning against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
After taking several months to successfully land a free agent deal last offseason, a former MVP will not be going for an encore this offseason.
Kiley McDaniel of ESPN reported Saturday that Chicago Cubs slugger Cody Bellinger has picked up his $27.5 million player option for the 2025 season. As a result, Bellinger will be remaining with the Cubs and won’t become a free agent.
The 29-year-old Bellinger was the NL MVP back in 2019 and enjoyed a resurgence upon joining the Cubs for the 2023 season. He became a free agent that offseason though and took nearly four months to secure a deal. But fortunately for him, Bellinger was ultimately able to return to Chicago on a three-year, $80 million contract.
This past season, Bellinger hit a modest .266 with 18 home runs and 78 RBIs in 130 games. Thus, it is wise for him to lock in the guaranteed $27.5 million for next season rather than to try to gamble for more on the open market. Bellinger still has the ability to opt out after 2025 as well, but for now, he will be at least one constant in an offseason that has already been filled with plenty of changes for the Cubs.
