Chicago Cubs star outfielder Cody Bellinger is facing a significant setback following a fractured left middle finger, which led to his placement on the injured list on Thursday. The injury occurred during Wednesday’s game against the Baltimore Orioles when Bellinger was hit by a pitch from left-handed reliever Cionel Perez in the seventh inning.
Although Bellinger initially stayed in the game, he was eventually replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni. In a corresponding roster move, the Cubs have recalled Alexander Canario from Triple-A Iowa to fill the void left by Bellinger’s absence.
Impact on the Cubs
The timing of the injury could not be more critical as the Cubs are currently navigating a challenging season. Heading into Thursday, the team holds a 44-49 record and sits 10 games back in the National League Central. Additionally, they are 3 1/2 games out of the NL's final wild-card spot. Bellinger's absence complicates the Cubs' pursuit of a playoff berth even further.
Bellinger, who will turn 29 this Saturday, has been one of the team’s more consistent performers. Before his injury, he posted a batting line of .269/.331/.410 (107 OPS+) with nine home runs, 37 runs batted in, and five stolen bases. Over the course of the season, his contributions have amounted to an estimated 1.1 Wins Above Replacement, according to Baseball Reference.
Trade Deadline Ramifications
Bellinger's injury raises questions about the Cubs’ strategy as the trade deadline approaches. An insider commented, "With the way the season has spiraled for the Cubs, we think they have to at least contemplate listening to offers for Bellinger." The decision is further complicated by the outfielder’s three-year pact, which allows him to opt out after each season. As another insider noted, "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."
The uncertainty surrounding Bellinger’s future with the Cubs is compounded by his current performance. "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," added an insider. This could potentially impact his trade value.
The Road Ahead
Despite his less stellar performance compared to previous years, Bellinger remains an above-average contributor capable of standing in center field, a position that holds significant value. As another insider put it, "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 Cubs have turned to 23-year-old Alexander Canario, promoting him from their Triple-A affiliate. Canario now faces the challenge of stepping up amidst this crucial juncture in the Cubs’ season. The team’s immediate schedule includes wrapping up their series with the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday before facing off against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Bellinger's injury and the decisions it forces upon the Cubs' management come at a pivotal time. While the team deliberates on its next steps, the implications for both the present season and future campaigns hang in the balance. The coming weeks will reveal whether the Cubs opt to trade Bellinger or persevere with hopes of a playoff push, despite the setback.