Chicago Cubs Setback: Cody Bellinger Placed on Injured List
Chicago Cubs star outfielder Cody Bellinger has been sidelined after suffering a fractured left middle finger. This unfortunate injury occurred during Wednesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles, when Bellinger was hit by a pitch thrown by lefty reliever Cionel Perez in the seventh inning. Although Bellinger initially stayed in the game, he was later replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni.
In light of this development, the Cubs have recalled Alexander Canario from their Triple-A Iowa affiliate as a corresponding roster move. Canario, at just 23 years old, will have the opportunity to step up and make an impact as the Cubs navigate this challenging period.
Impact on the Cubs' Season
Bellinger's injury comes at a critical juncture 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. Despite his efforts, the Cubs hold a 44-49 record and are 10 games back in the National League Central. They are also 3 1/2 games shy of the NL's final wild-card spot.
The timing is particularly concerning as it raises vital questions about the team's strategy leading up to the trade deadline. What's more, Bellinger's three-year contract allows him to opt out after each season, providing no assurance that he will be on Chicago's roster come Opening Day 2025. This fluid situation leaves the Cubs in a precarious position as they consider their options.
Trader Rumors and Speculations
An insider revealed, "With the way the season has spiraled for the Cubs, we think they have to at least contemplate listening to offers for Bellinger." Considering Bellinger's subpar 2023 performance and his unusual profile, there is heightened uncertainty about his future. "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," another insider remarked.
The complexity of Bellinger's contract situation could also be a factor that deters potential buyers. "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," noted an insider. However, a well-timed surge in performance from Bellinger could alter the current landscape significantly. "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 insider concluded.
Looking Ahead
The Cubs’ immediate schedule includes finishing their series with the Baltimore Orioles and then moving on to face the St. Louis Cardinals. The team will need to rally and possibly reconsider their roster dynamics, bearing in mind Bellinger's contributions, which amount to an estimated 1.1 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference's estimates.
As Bellinger prepares to turn 29 this Saturday, the Cubs and their fans are left hoping for a swift recovery and a return to form for their star outfielder. Until then, the spotlight falls on Alexander Canario and the rest of the team to fill the void and keep contention hopes alive.