Chicago Cubs star outfielder Cody Bellinger has been sidelined due to a fractured left middle finger suffered during Wednesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles. The injury occurred in the seventh inning when Bellinger was hit by a pitch from lefty reliever Cionel Perez. Despite initially staying in the game, Bellinger was later replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni.
In response to Bellinger's injury, the Cubs have made a roster adjustment by recalling Alexander Canario from Triple-A Iowa. The 23-year-old is expected to fill in during Bellinger's absence as the team navigates a challenging part of their schedule, which includes wrapping up the series against the Orioles and an upcoming series against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Bellinger's Season and Team Impact
Bellinger, who will turn 29 this Saturday, has had a solid season, hitting .269/.331/.410 with nine home runs, 37 RBIs, and five stolen bases. Entering Thursday's game, his performance amounted to an estimated 1.1 Wins Above Replacement, according to Baseball Reference's estimates. However, it's noted that Bellinger's current season isn't as strong as his performance in 2023, raising some eyebrows among analysts and fans alike.
The Cubs currently hold a 44-49 record and find themselves ten games back in the National League Central and 3 1/2 games shy of the NL's final wild-card spot. Bellinger's injury not only affects the Cubs' immediate chances of making a push in the standings but also raises questions about the team's strategy as the trade deadline approaches.
Trade Deadline Considerations
With Bellinger under a three-year pact that allows him to opt out after each season, his future with the Cubs is anything but certain. An insider commented on the situation, saying, "With the way the season has spiraled for the Cubs, we think they have to at least contemplate listening to offers for Bellinger."
The same insider added, "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." This uncertainty surrounding Bellinger's contract makes the upcoming trade deadline even more critical for the Cubs' front office.
Despite his slightly reduced performance compared to the previous year, Bellinger remains an above-average contributor and a viable option for center field. "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 an insider. Nonetheless, they pointed out that a strong showing before the trade deadline could shift 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."
Potential Outcomes and Fan Reactions
The potential for other teams to leverage concerns about Bellinger's opt-out clause could impact any trade discussions. As an insider noted, "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 Cubs' fanbase, already anxious about the team's current standing and future prospects, will undoubtedly be watching closely as the trade deadline approaches. The loss of Bellinger, even temporarily, is a significant blow to the team’s offensive production and overall morale. However, with Alexander Canario stepping up from Triple-A, there's a glimmer of hope that the young talent can make a meaningful impact during this critical period.
As the Cubs continue to navigate this season's ups and downs, all eyes will be on how they manage Bellinger's absence and the decisions they make leading up to the trade deadline. One thing is certain: the next few weeks will be crucial in determining the Cubs' path forward.