Cody Bellinger’s representative suggested that the star preferred the Chicago Cubs’ offer above others provided to him.
The Chicago Cubs and Cody Bellinger reunited this offseason after a long, drawn-out process.
It doesn’t matter how long it took; the Cubs finally have their superstar back on the roster, ready to provide the diverse defense and regained hitting skills he demonstrated in 2023.
This was big for the franchise.
The front staff discussed chasing stars before the winter began, and they had basically missed all of their targets before finally getting Bellinger back in the mix.
A squad that wanted to compete needed this kind of star power.
But it almost didn’t happen.
Scott Boras, Bellinger’s agent, hinted that the reigning Comeback Player of the Year was considering other choices before deciding to return to Chicago.
“If you don’t think Cody Bellinger has options other than this… The truth is, we signed a contract in consultation with Cody and his wishes…,” the superagent told Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune.
It makes little difference whether that is a spin for Boras’ failure to land his client the megadeal for which he was looking.
Bellinger has committed to the Cubs for at least the upcoming season.
His three-year, $80 million contract includes opt-outs after 2024 and 2025. If the star has another year like he did with Chicago last season, he’ll likely enter free agency again in search of that potential nine-figure contract.
Only time will tell whether this is the case.
One thing is certain: Bellinger enjoyed his time with the Cubs last year, and he’s excited to return to the franchise that helped him turn his career around.
“When it was coming toward the end and everything was coming to light a little bit, this was definitely something I wanted and both sides agreed on,” the player stated.
Now that he’s at camp, the question is when fans will get to see him play.
Manager Craig Counsell isn’t pressuring him, but Bellinger says he could be ready in a week if needed.
It is unclear when his first action will occur, but it will be with Chicago this season.
