According to multiple reports the Cubs are signing free agent outfielder Cody Bellinger.
According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, the Cubs and Bellinger have agreed to a one-year deal worth $17.5 million.
Both sides are betting on Bellinger's ability to return back to his previous form after three down seasons with the Dodgers. Bellinger gives the Cubs a capable left-handed bat who will be the every-day starter in center field in 2023.
It's definitely a gamble for the Cubs, but we're talking about a 27-year-old who isn't that far removed from winning National League MVP in 2019.
Again, there are no guarantees that Bellinger does bounce back at the plate, but maybe there's hope that he can now return from an injured shoulder. In 2022, Bellinger hit 19 home runs, and slashed .210/265/.389. Maybe a change of scenery will also help Bellinger, while the banning of defensive shifts may contribute to an uptick in production for Bellinger, too.
Bellinger also gives the Cubs another option at first base in case prospect Matt Mervis struggles at the major league level or maybe the Cubs still try to add another outfielder via trade to improve the roster.
Here's Cubs manager David Ross finding live on MLB Network about the Bellinger signing.
It's a good, first step for a roster in need of multiple additions. How about a shortstop...or two next?
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