Chicago Cubs star outfielder Cody Bellinger finds himself sidelined following a fractured left middle finger, sustained during Wednesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles. The injury occurred in the seventh inning when Bellinger was struck by a pitch from lefty reliever Cionel Perez. Initially, Bellinger remained in the game but was ultimately replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni.
The repercussions of Bellinger's injury were immediate, as the Cubs promptly placed him on the injured list on Thursday. In a corresponding move, the team recalled 23-year-old Alexander Canario from their Triple-A affiliate, Triple-A Iowa. Canario, now thrust into a key role, will have to step up to fill the void left by Bellinger's absence.
Performance and Injury's Impact
Bellinger, who is set to turn 29 this Saturday, has been a steady presence for the Cubs this season. As of Thursday, he was hitting .269/.331/.410 (107 OPS+) with nine home runs, 37 runs batted in, and five stolen bases. His contributions have been valued at approximately 1.1 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference's estimates. However, it’s been noted that Bellinger isn't having as good of a year as he did in 2023, raising further discussions about his future with the team.
The Cubs, currently holding a 44-49 record, are 10 games back in the National League Central and 3 1/2 games behind the final wild-card spot in the National League. Bellinger’s injury could significantly impact the team's strategy as the trade deadline approaches. An insider noted, "With the way the season has spiraled for the Cubs, we think they have to at least contemplate listening to offers for Bellinger." This sentiment underscores the uncertain trajectory for both the player and the franchise.
Contract and Future Prospects
Bellinger's contract situation adds another layer of complexity to his scenario. His three-year pact allows him to opt out after each season, providing no assurance that he will remain on Chicago's roster come Opening Day 2025. "Remember, his three-year pact allows him to opt out after each season, meaning there’s no actual assurance either way that he’ll be on Chicago’s roster come Opening Day 2025," an insider emphasized. This contractual flexibility means the Cubs might have to weigh potential offers carefully, factoring in Bellinger’s performance and future options.
There are concerns about Bellinger's atypical profile, which might deter some teams or affect their willingness to give up substantial assets in a trade. As another insider articulated, "We’ll concede that Bellinger isn’t having as good of a year as he did in 2023, and that teams may have additional concerns about his unusual profile as a result." This reality might lower his trade value or keep him in Chicago longer, especially if teams leverage these concerns in negotiations.
Conversely, there's also a chance that Bellinger's performance could elevate leading up to the trade deadline, which might alter the dynamics. "A well-timed heater between now and the deadline could change things, however, and even in this current reality, he’s an above-average contributor capable of standing in center field. That’s something," noted an insider. Even amidst an injury, Bellinger’s comprehensive abilities in the outfield are a valuable asset.
Immediate Schedule
As the Cubs navigate Bellinger's injury and potential trade discussions, they face a critical juncture in their season. The team wraps up their series with the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday before heading into a series against the St. Louis Cardinals. These games could further define their standing and influence decisions as the trade deadline looms.
In the interim, all eyes will be on Alexander Canario and how he performs during Bellinger's absence. For Bellinger and the Cubs, the coming weeks could shape the future in unexpected ways, leaving fans and insiders alike on the edge of their seats as developments unfold.