Chicago Cubs star outfielder Cody Bellinger faced a significant setback on Thursday after being placed on the injured list due to a fractured left middle finger. The injury occurred during Wednesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles, as Bellinger was struck by a pitch in the seventh inning from lefty reliever Cionel Perez. Despite initially staying in the game, Bellinger was eventually replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni.
This injury prompted the Cubs to recall Alexander Canario from Triple-A Iowa in a corresponding roster move. Canario, a 23-year-old outfielder, will be looking to fill the void left by Bellinger as the Cubs navigate a challenging period of their season.
Bellinger's Season Performance
Entering Thursday's game, Bellinger boasted a .269/.331/.410 slash line (107 OPS+) with nine home runs, 37 RBIs, and five stolen bases. Despite these numbers, it's argued that Bellinger isn't having as strong a year as he did in 2023. His contributions, amounting to an estimated 1.1 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) according to Baseball Reference, indicate that while he remains an above-average player, his performance has not reached the high bar he set in previous seasons.
The injury further complicates the Cubs' position in the standings. With a 44-49 record, the team finds itself ten games back in the National League Central and 3 1/2 games shy of the final wild-card spot. Bellinger's absence may have significant implications on their strategy as the trade deadline approaches.
Trade Deadline Implications
Insiders suggest that the Cubs' front office may need to consider listening to trade offers for Bellinger, especially given the way the season has unfolded. One insider noted, "With the way the season has spiraled for the Cubs, we think they have to at least contemplate listening to offers for Bellinger." This perspective gains traction in light of Bellinger's contract, which allows him to opt out after each season, leaving his long-term presence on the roster uncertain. As one insider observed, "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."
However, there are factors that may complicate potential trades. Concerns about Bellinger's unusual profile and performance decline from previous years could make teams hesitant. As another insider pointed out, "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." These uncertainties might influence whether teams see Bellinger as a valuable asset or a potential risk.
Looking Ahead
Despite these challenges, a strong finish to the season before the trade deadline could alter Bellinger's market value. "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," remarked an insider.
The Cubs' immediate schedule offers little respite, with their ongoing series against the Baltimore Orioles concluding Thursday before a pivotal matchup against the St. Louis Cardinals. It remains to be seen how the team will adjust to Bellinger's absence and whether the promotion of Alexander Canario will provide the spark they need to stay competitive in the tight National League race.
As Bellinger celebrates his 29th birthday this Saturday, the Cubs and their fans will be hoping for a swift recovery and a potential return that could influence their fortunes for the remainder of the season. The next few weeks promise to be crucial for the Cubs' 2023 campaign, with decisions made now likely shaping the team's future trajectory.