Top Cody Bellinger Trade Destinations: Cubs’ Star on the Move?
Sportsgrid Staff
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Should the Cubs Trade Cody Bellinger?
Trading Cody Bellinger is a decision the Cubs must weigh carefully. On one hand, his versatility and proven performance make him a valuable asset. On the other, flipping him for starting pitchers, bullpen depth, or catching talent could address glaring roster needs.
Ultimately, the Cubs’ decision will hinge on what they can acquire in return. While keeping Bellinger ensures outfield depth, trading him could solidify their pitching staff and position them for a stronger 2025 season.
Potential Trade Destinations for Cody Bellinger
With Cody Bellinger opting into his $27.5 million contract for 2025 with the Chicago Cubs, the offseason brings speculation about his future. While Bellinger remains a valuable piece for the Cubs, their crowded outfield and pitching needs make him a prime trade candidate. Here’s a look at the top potential trade partners, analyzing team fits, needs, and what they could offer in return.
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Cody Bellinger’s Impact with the Cubs
Since joining the Cubs in 2023, Cody Bellinger has revived his career. He posted a standout .307 batting average with 26 home runs in his first year and followed it with a respectable .266 and 18 homers in 2024. Over two seasons, he accumulated a combined 6.6 WAR, showing his versatility across outfield positions and first base.
While he remains a key contributor for the Cubs, their crowded outfield—with Pete Crow-Armstrong, Ian Happ, and Seiya Suzuki locked into starting roles—raises questions about his long-term fit.
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Philadelphia Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies need a versatile outfielder to complement their lineup after falling short in the playoffs. Bellinger would fit nicely alongside Austin Hays or Brandon Marsh, who are better suited as platoon partners rather than playing every day. Nick Castellanos would also be in the fold, but Bellinger provides an upgrade in both offensive consistency and defensive flexibility to any current Philadelphia outfielder.
Philadelphia’s willingness to exceed luxury tax thresholds makes absorbing Bellinger’s salary a non-issue. A trade package could include pitching prospects or bullpen reinforcements, aligning with Chicago’s needs.
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Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners, on the cusp of playoff contention, desperately need offense after ranking near the bottom in batting average and slugging percentage in 2024. Pairing Bellinger with Julio Rodriguez and Randy Arozarena would strengthen their lineup while offering defensive versatility.
Seattle’s wealth of pitching talent, both at the Major League and minor league levels, makes them an ideal trade partner for the Cubs. A deal involving relievers or high-ceiling prospects could satisfy both sides.
Toronto Blue Jays
The Toronto Blue Jays are searching for ways to remain competitive in the AL East, and Cody Bellinger could provide a spark. With Daulton Varsho excelling defensively and George Springer coming off a down year, Bellinger would be an everyday outfield starter.
Toronto has the financial flexibility to take on his contract and a collection of Major League-ready arms that could interest the Cubs. Bellinger’s bat would add depth and balance to the Blue Jays’ lineup.
Should the Cubs Trade Cody Bellinger?
Trading Cody Bellinger is a decision the Cubs must weigh carefully. On one hand, his versatility and proven performance make him a valuable asset. On the other, flipping him for starting pitchers, bullpen depth, or catching talent could address glaring roster needs.
Ultimately, the Cubs’ decision will hinge on what they can acquire in return. While keeping Bellinger ensures outfield depth, trading him could solidify their pitching staff and position them for a stronger 2025 season.
Potential Trade Destinations for Cody Bellinger
With Cody Bellinger opting into his $27.5 million contract for 2025 with the Chicago Cubs, the offseason brings speculation about his future. While Bellinger remains a valuable piece for the Cubs, their crowded outfield and pitching needs make him a prime trade candidate. Here’s a look at the top potential trade partners, analyzing team fits, needs, and what they could offer in return.
Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.
