Bellinger was non-tendered by the Dodgers after the 2022 season.
non-tendered Bellinger last month rather than pay him $18 million or so through arbitration.
Bellinger, who is still only 27, has crashed hard since being named MVP in 2019 and winning the World Series in 2020. He's slashed .193/.256/.355 the last two seasons, including .201/.265/.389 in 550 plate appearances in 2022. Bellinger remains an elite defensive center fielder, but he's simply stopped hitting. Chicago will try to get his bat back on track in 2023.
The Cubs started seven different players in center field this past season and none stayed there for more than 50 games. The position was a revolving door all summer. Bellinger's defense means he'll never be a total zero and Chicago can give him a very long leash to see whether he can figure things out, and get back to being the player he was a few years ago.
Agent Scott Boras said Tuesday that Bellinger received multiple multi-year offers this offseason, though the plan all along was to sign a one-year contract, rebuild value, then give free agency another try next offseason. If Bellinger does bounce back, the Cubs could try to sign him to a long-term contract, or at least make him the qualifying offer and recoup a draft pick.
The Cubs are expected to very active this offseason and they've been connected to free agent shortstops
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Cubs, Former Dodgers MVP Cody Bellinger Agree to DealThe Cubs have agreed to a deal with free agent and former Dodgers MVP Cody Bellinger.
Read more »
What to know before Lauren Daigle, Chainsmokers, Cody Jinks rodeo concert tickets go on saleIt feels like the rodeo's had more surprise drops than a limited release inside the Nike SNKRS app! Hopefully, what the rodeo's offering will be much easier to get.
Read more »
MVP, because Hurts is so good | Sports Daily NewsletterDaily News | MVP, because Hurts is so good | Sports Daily Newsletter
Read more »
Jalen Hurts strengthens MVP bid as he leads Eagles to 11-1 recordGood luck trying to find a game this season where Jalen Hurts hasn’t set a Philadelphia Eagles’ record or achieved some sort of milestone not yet reached in the NFL.
Read more »
Man admits smoking synthetic pot when he killed Headland teenStudent dies while bringing trash can from roadway. Now, a man admits he is responsible.
Read more »
Anthony Davis showing MVP-caliber play as Lakers go on winning tearIf the Lakers' Anthony Davis keeps up his recent hot streak, his name should be near the top of MVP ballots next year, JeffZillgitt writes.
Read more »