Chicago Cubs Face Uncertainty with Cody Bellinger's Injury
Chicago Cubs star outfielder Cody Bellinger's season hit a significant snag on Thursday following a fractured left middle finger, leaving the team uncertain about their strategy as the trade deadline approaches.
Bellinger sustained the injury during Wednesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles in the seventh inning. The misfortune struck when a pitch from lefty reliever Cionel Perez hit him, resulting in a severe fracture. Despite his initial resilience in staying on the field, Bellinger was eventually replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni.
In a corresponding roster move, the Cubs promptly recalled Alexander Canario from Triple-A Iowa, turning to the 23-year-old as they seek to fill the void left by Bellinger. The timing of Bellinger's injury couldn't be more problematic as the Cubs find themselves in a precarious position in the National League standings.
Up until his injury, Bellinger had been having a respectable season, hitting .269/.331/.410 with nine home runs, 37 runs batted in, and five stolen bases. He boasts a 107 OPS+ and his contributions amount to an estimated 1.1 Wins Above Replacement, according to Baseball Reference. However, this season hasn't seen him replicate the success he enjoyed in 2023.
"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," said a team insider.
Cubs' Standings and Strategic Dilemmas
The Cubs currently hold a 44-49 record, standing 10 games back in the National League Central and trailing the NL's final wild-card spot by 3 1/2 games. This gap raises questions about the team's direction moving forward, especially now with their star outfielder sidelined.
"With the way the season has spiraled for the Cubs, we think they have to at least contemplate listening to offers for Bellinger," noted an insider. Bellinger's contract includes an opt-out clause after each season, introducing additional variables into the team's decision-making process.
"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," the insider continued. This clause could influence trade negotiations, either deterring potential suitors who fear an opt-in followed by decline or leveraging the Cubs into accepting a less favorable deal.
Potential Outcomes and Bellinger's Future
"That, in turn, could make it more likely that he stays in place — either because teams are concerned he'll opt-in and decline, or because teams try to use that possibility to leverage the Cubs into a worse return," the insider explained. Still, Bellinger's caliber and ability to contribute significantly could sway decisions as we edge closer to the deadline. "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."
The Cubs' immediate schedule has them concluding their series with the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday before facing off against the St. Louis Cardinals. The promotion of Alexander Canario indicates an adjustment phase for the team, as they attempt to compensate for Bellinger's absence and find some momentum to close the gap in the standings.
At 29 years old this Saturday, Bellinger's experience and skill are assets that could either be retained for a hopeful push or traded to build for the future. As the trade deadline approaches, the Cubs' management faces critical decisions that will shape their near-term prospects and possibly the organization’s long-term trajectory.
For now, the Chicago Cubs and their fans are left to wonder how Bellinger's injury and the ensuing roster changes will impact their season. With the possibility of trades looming, the baseball world watches closely, seeking insight into the franchise's next move amidst a turbulent season.