Chicago Cubs star outfielder Cody Bellinger is facing a challenging turn in the 2023 MLB season. Bellinger was placed on the injured list this Thursday after suffering a fractured left middle finger. The incident transpired during the seventh inning of Wednesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles, when Bellinger was hit by a pitch from lefty reliever Cionel Perez.
Initially determined to continue playing, Bellinger eventually had to be replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni. Following the injury, the Cubs quickly recalled Alexander Canario from Triple-A Iowa to fill the roster spot vacated by Bellinger.
Impact on the Cubs' Season
Bellinger’s absence comes at a critical juncture for the Cubs. As of Thursday, the team holds a 44-49 record, positioning them 10 games behind in the National League Central and 3 1/2 games shy of securing the NL’s final wild-card spot. This latest setback could greatly influence the Cubs' approach as the trade deadline looms.
The 29-year-old outfielder has been moderately productive this season, batting .269/.331/.410 (107 OPS+) with nine home runs, 37 RBIs, and five stolen bases. Despite not matching his performance from 2023, Bellinger's statistics reflect a respectable contribution, amassing an estimated 1.1 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference's estimates. An insider noted, "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."
Future Implications
Bellinger’s injury and current status raise pertinent questions regarding his and the Cubs' future strategies. His three-year contract allows him to opt-out after each season, creating uncertainty about his tenure with the team. As one insider pointed out, "There's no actual assurance either way that he'll be on Chicago's roster come Opening Day 2025."
Given the unfolding circumstances, the Cubs might have to consider trade options for Bellinger. "With the way the season has spiraled for the Cubs, we think they have to at least contemplate listening to offers for Bellinger," another insider emphasized. Bellinger's unique profile also adds a layer of complexity. "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," articulated an insider.
Such factors could lead to varied outcomes in trade negotiations. "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," one insider elaborated.
Canario Steps Up
In the immediate term, the Cubs will rely on 23-year-old Alexander Canario to fill the gap left by Bellinger. Canario was called up from the Cubs' Triple-A affiliate, reflecting the organization's effort to stay competitive in the midst of adversity.
The Cubs are scheduled to wrap up their series with the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday before facing the St. Louis Cardinals. These upcoming games will serve as a crucial test for the team as they navigate without one of their star players.
Bellinger's recovery and the Cubs' strategy regarding his potential trade will undeniably be significant storylines leading up to and beyond the trade deadline. Both the player and the organization have critical decisions to make that will likely shape their trajectories for the remainder of the season and possibly beyond.