Inside the Clubhouse: Juan Soto's free agency, Shohei Ohtani history, Cubs' offseason

As per a recent report by Patrick Mooney of The Athletic, there is uncertainty surrounding the future of the multi-talented Chicago Cubs player, Cody Bellinger. At 29 years old, Bellinger, who has previously clinched an MVP title and a World Series ring, is approaching another lengthy offseason. Known for his versatile skill set, he maintains a strong rapport with his fellow players and coaching staff. It remains to be seen whether he will explore free agency once again. Will it benefit the Cubs if leaves?

Cody Bellinger Remains Undecided About Free Agency

Bellinger is putting up a respectable season by hitting .268/.328/.432 with 18 home runs. He fanned in 15.8 percent of his plate appearances this year, slightly higher than the 15.6 percent strikeout rate in his first season with the Cubs. Bellinger signed a one-year, $17.5 million deal with the Cubs in 2023, carrying the team to a near MVP-level performance (.307 batting average, 26 home runs, 97 RBI). However, several factors worked against Bellinger last offseason, who’s represented by Scott Boras. During spring training, Bellinger returned to the Cubs and signed a three-year, $80 million contract with opt-out clauses after the 2024 and 2025 seasons.

Mooney suggested that the Cubs could significantly increase their financial flexibility during the upcoming offseason. The Cubs are considering positional changes to compensate for Bellinger’s potential departure. Pete Crow-Armstrong could play in center field, Seiya Suzuki in right field, and Michael Busch at first base. This realignment lets Suzuki play more frequently, instead of being limited to designated hitter. The team also plans to pursue upgrades in other positions during the offseason. Bellinger is seen as one of the younger free agents available.

Bellinger’s potential stay with the Cubs might lead to Harrison Bader becoming the top center field option in free agency. The available options for center fielders, apart from Anthony Santander and Juan Soto, are sparse.