Chicago Cubs star outfielder Cody Bellinger was placed on the injured list on Thursday following the unfortunate event of fracturing his left middle finger. The injury took place during Wednesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles when Bellinger was hit by a pitch in the seventh inning by left-handed reliever Cionel Perez.
Bellinger initially stayed in the game, trying to tough it out, but was eventually replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni. The Cubs, aiming to fill the gap in the roster caused by this injury, have recalled Alexander Canario from Triple-A Iowa as a corresponding move.
Bellinger's Impact
Bellinger, who turns 29 this Saturday, has been a pivotal player for the Cubs this season. Entering Thursday, he showcased a batting average of .269, an on-base percentage of .331, and a slugging percentage of .410, compiling a 107 OPS+ with nine home runs, 37 RBIs, and five stolen bases. His overall contributions add up to an estimated 1.1 Wins Above Replacement, as per Baseball Reference’s estimates.
The injury couldn't have come at a worse time for the Cubs. Currently sporting a 44-49 record, they find themselves 10 games back in the National League Central and 3.5 games short of the NL’s final wild-card spot. With Bellinger's absence, the team’s strategy leading up to the trade deadline may require urgent recalibration.
Trade Deadline Considerations
As an 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.” The Cubs must weigh their options, given that Bellinger's three-year deal allows him to opt out after each season. “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,” added the insider.
Despite being a strong performer, Bellinger is not replicating the standout success he had in 2023. As another insider remarked, “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.” This dip in performance, coupled with the uncertainty surrounding his contractual opt-out clause, complicates any potential trade negotiations.
These factors might deter teams or incentivize them to use the opt-out clause as leverage against the Cubs. “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,” observed the analyst.
Nevertheless, there's still a window of opportunity for the Cubs. A surge in Bellinger’s performance ahead of the trade deadline could shift the dynamics 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,” the insider stated.
Next Steps for the Cubs
With Bellinger sidelined, Alexander Canario, a promising 23-year-old, has been given the nod to step up from Triple-A Iowa. The Cubs hope Canario’s youthful energy and talent can help fill the shoes of their star outfielder, at least temporarily.
Immediately, the Cubs aim to finish their series against the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday before heading into a crucial series against the St. Louis Cardinals. The team’s performance in the coming games will be critical, providing a clearer picture of their prospects as they navigate the remainder of the season and approach the trade deadline.
Ultimately, Cody Bellinger’s injury poses a significant challenge for the Chicago Cubs, both on the field and in their broader strategic planning. How they adapt to this setback could have lasting implications for the team’s future.