After months of rumors and negotiations, the Chicago Cubs are bringing back their best player of the 2023 season.
Outfielder Cody Bellinger, who had an amazing rebound campaign, is back on a three-year, $80 million deal.
The deal is flexible for both sides: it’s not an extremely long commitment for the Cubs to absorb in case of injury or underperformance, and the player will have not one, but two opt-out clauses: one after 2024, and the other one after 2025.
Cubs insider Jesse Rogers shared his opinion on the agreement and called it a “great deal” for Chicago.
Under different conditions, Bellinger’s 2023 performance might have netted him at least $150 million, perhaps more.
But the market wasn’t kind to Bellinger, and Chicago took advantage.
“Just a great deal for the Cubs. Gives them a chance to compete this year while keeping things flexible in future years as their highly touted farm system produces ML players. This was literally the only way he returns…A long, drawn out process where short term wins out,” Rogers tweeted.
Just a great deal for the Cubs. Gives them a chance to compete this year while keeping things flexible in future years as their highly touted farm system produces ML players. This was literally the only way he returns…A long, drawn out process where short term wins out. https://t.co/j6EEIwrgEi
— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) February 25, 2024
Judging by what Rogers said, Bellinger wanted a much longer commitment.
After posting a .881 OPS with a .307 batting average, 26 home runs, 29 doubles, and 97 RBI, one can understand his sentiment.
The deal gives Chicago a top player to compete this year, which combined with their excellent farm and solid roster gives them an edge.
However, the player will get the chance to re-test the market again next winter if he has another solid season.
He would be leaving $30 million behind, but with a chance of netting a much longer commitment.
If Bellinger performs, this contract could be a win-win for both sides.
The post Cubs Insider Comments On Latest ‘Great Deal’ For The Team appeared first on The Cold Wire.