The Chicago Cubs find themselves languishing in last place in the National League Central as of Friday, suggesting it might be time to offload some of their star talent.
Despite starting the season with high hopes for contention, things haven’t gone according to plan for Craig Counsell’s squad. With the Cubs sitting at 38-44 and injuries piling up, their role as sellers in the trade market is becoming increasingly apparent.
League insiders have long suspected that Chicago might be willing to part with mid-level talents like Patrick Wisdom or Kyle Hendricks. However, a new report suggests the Cubs might be ready to shop around one of their most prized assets as well.
According to The Athletic’s MLB staff, Chicago is likely to entertain offers for star slugger Cody Bellinger as the July 30 trade deadline approaches. Last season, Bellinger was the subject of trade discussions, but many believed the Cubs had decided to keep him in a bid to strengthen their lineup. The latest report, however, paints a different picture.
“With the Cubs struggling to gain traction in the playoff race, teams like the New York Yankees and Texas Rangers have recently had a noticeable scouting presence around the club,” The Athletic’s MLB staff noted. “If the trend continues for the Cubs, Bellinger’s name will likely become a hot topic near the deadline, just as it was last season. He remains a well-rounded, productive player who hits left-handed and offers flexibility by being able to handle first base and all three outfield positions.”
This season, Bellinger is batting .271/.331/.428 with nine home runs and 34 RBIs in 269 at-bats. The former National League MVP and World Series champion could provide a significant boost to contenders like the Yankees, but his current production isn’t enough to turn the tide for the struggling Cubs.
A trade involving Bellinger could benefit Chicago, the player himself, and potential suitors. The big question is whether Cubs President Jed Hoyer will make a bold move while Bellinger’s value remains high.
