Bellinger will sign with this team

Cody Bellinger’s free agency has generated significant interest from multiple teams, with several rumors circulating about potential destinations. As of January 20, there is a “widespread belief within the industry” that Bellinger might re-sign with the Cubs, contingent on his asking price coming down from a reported $200 million-plus. Bellinger had an impressive 2023 season with the Cubs, hitting .307/.356/.525 with 26 home runs and 20 steals, marking a strong bounce-back from previous years.

The Cubs’ recent acquisition of Michael Busch, expected to be their primary first baseman, has raised questions about their pursuit of Bellinger. The team is reportedly exploring other options, including signing third baseman Matt Chapman or starter Jordan Montgomery. The Cubs value top prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong as their center fielder of the future, which could mean Bellinger’s return, if it happens, might be in the first baseman role.

The Blue Jays were considered strong contenders for Bellinger, but recent moves, such as re-signing center fielder Kevin Kiermaier and adding utility man Isiah Kiner-Falefa, have cast some doubt on their pursuit. While Toronto still needs a left-handed bat, the likelihood of meeting Bellinger’s asking price (over $200 million) is uncertain, considering their existing coverage in center field and first base with Kiermaier and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

The Giants, after signing Korean center fielder Jung Hoo Lee, are still in the market to upgrade their offense. Bellinger is mentioned as a potential target for the Giants, although it’s suggested that they might prioritize pitching additions like Blake Snell and Matt Chapman. The Cubs are considered more likely than the Giants to sign Bellinger, according to recent reports.

Earlier speculation indicated that the Blue Jays were emerging as favorites for Bellinger, given their strong bid for Shohei Ohtani. Toronto’s willingness to spend significant money on star players aligns with Bellinger’s reported contract expectations. However, no deal has been finalized, and the competition remains fierce.

While Bellinger’s reunion with the Cubs seemed uncertain a few weeks ago, recent developments suggest it might be becoming more likely. The Yankees and Giants, previously linked to Bellinger, have made other outfield acquisitions, and the Cubs have been relatively quiet in free agency. However, it’s noted that Bellinger’s asking price, reportedly exceeding $200 million, may need to come down for a reunion with the Cubs to materialize.

The Giants’ signing of Jung Hoo Lee adds a significant center fielder to their roster, raising questions about their pursuit of Bellinger. Nevertheless, the Giants, being “big-game hunters,” still show interest in Bellinger, along with other targets like Blake Snell and Matt Chapman. The Cubs are considered more likely than the Giants to secure Bellinger, but San Francisco remains in the mix.

As of December 19, the Blue Jays were perceived as favorites in the Bellinger sweepstakes, with a reported desire to spend significantly on star players. Their need for a left-handed bat in the lineup aligns with Bellinger’s profile. While the Cubs are also in the hunt, the Blue Jays’ aggressive pursuit suggests they could be the frontrunners.

Recent reports on December 17 indicate that the competition for Bellinger may be down to the Cubs and Blue Jays. Both teams are considered the likeliest contenders for the former NL MVP. The Blue Jays, having missed out on Ohtani, are described as emerging favorites, while the Cubs remain in contention. Bellinger’s asking price of over $200 million adds complexity to the negotiations.

On December 13, the likelihood of a reunion between the Cubs and Bellinger seemed to be increasing. While the Yankees and Giants pursued other options, and the Cubs signed manager Craig Counsell, the Cubs remained interested in Bellinger. However, it’s suggested that Bellinger’s asking price, potentially exceeding $200 million, may need to come down for a reunion to occur.

The Giants’ signing of Jung Hoo Lee on December 12 raised questions about its impact on Bellinger’s market. The Giants, previously rumored as a potential destination for Bellinger, addressed their center field need with Lee. While the Giants remain interested in Bellinger, the Cubs are considered more likely to sign him. Bellinger’s free agency is expected to last a while, given his reported contract expectations.