Chicago Cubs star outfielder Cody Bellinger has been placed on the injured list following an unfortunate incident during Wednesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles. Bellinger suffered a fractured left middle finger after being hit by a pitch in the seventh inning by lefty reliever Cionel Perez. Despite the injury, Bellinger initially stayed in the game but was later replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni.
This turn of events has forced the Cubs to recall Alexander Canario from Triple-A Iowa. Canario, a 23-year-old outfielder, now has the hefty task of stepping into Bellinger's shoes as the Cubs continue their season.
Bellinger's Impact on the Cubs
The timing of Bellinger’s injury could not be worse for the Cubs. Entering Thursday, Bellinger was hitting .269/.331/.410 (107 OPS+) with nine home runs, 37 runs batted in, and five stolen bases. His contributions have accounted for an estimated 1.1 Wins Above Replacement, according to Baseball Reference. At just 29 years old, Bellinger's performance this season has been valuable, yet not on par with his previous years.
Currently, the Cubs sit at a 44-49 record. They find themselves 10 games back in the National League Central and 3 1/2 games shy of the NL’s final wild-card spot. This sub-par standing brings into question the team's strategy as the trade deadline approaches, particularly concerning Bellinger’s three-year contract that includes an opt-out clause after each season. An insider commented, "With the way the season has spiraled for the Cubs, we think they have to at least contemplate listening to offers for Bellinger."
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
There is no certainty around Bellinger remaining with the Cubs beyond this season. As the source noted, "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 contractual uncertainty, coupled with his injury, complicates the Cubs' approach to the upcoming trade deadline.
Moreover, Bellinger's performance this season has sparked some doubts. "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," an insider stated. These uncertainties could impact his market value, potentially limiting the offers the Cubs might receive.
However, there is still hope for the Cubs and Bellinger. The insider added, "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." An impressive performance leading up to and beyond the trade deadline could not only bolster the Cubs' standings but also reignite interest in Bellinger from other teams.
Strategic Moves and Future Outlook
In the meantime, the Cubs will rely on Canario to fill the void left by Bellinger. Known for his potential, Canario has an opportunity to make a significant impact and showcase his skills at the major league level. The Cubs will wrap up their series with the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday and will then face off against their divisional rivals, the St. Louis Cardinals.
Bellinger turning 29 this Saturday marks yet another milestone under the cloud of his recent injury. While his current season may not be as dominant as years past, his worth to the Cubs—both on the field and as a potential trade asset—remains significant. As the trade deadline approaches, the Cubs' strategy will unquestionably be shaped by Bellinger's recovery and potential to play.
This period presents both an intriguing challenge and an opportunity for the Cubs. As they navigate the complexities of their current roster health and future prospects, their decisions in the coming weeks could set the tone for the remainder of the season and beyond.