Cody Bellinger's Stats, Metrics, Game Logs, Projections & Rankings

Rival executives are saying the Chicago Cubs want to trade first baseman/outfielder Cody Bellinger this offseason, but it might not be that easy. The 29-year-old has a remaining guarantee of $32.5 million -- $27.5 million in salary with $5 million in a potential buyout -- by choosing not to opt out of his deal. Bellinger could sacrifice his buyout and opt in for another $27.5 million in 2026. He was 11 percent above league average in OPS but wasn't as impactful in 2024 as he was in 2023. If the New York Yankees don't re-sign outfielder Juan Soto, Bellinger could be one of their options. However, the $32.5 million that Bellinger is guaranteed would mitigate the return. In order to trade the lefty slugger, Chicago might need to take back an inflated contract or accept marginal prospects in any deal. Bellinger hit .266 with 18 homers, 78 RBI and nine steals in 130 games for the Cubs in 2024.

Chicago Cubs first baseman and outfielder Cody Bellinger picked up his $27.5 million player option with Chicago on Saturday. He will not become a free agent this offseason and still has one player option remaining on his contract for 2026. Bellinger originally signed a three-year $80 million deal with the Cubs last offseason after flourishing during a "prove it" contract for the 2023 season. The lefty's second season with Chicago was less impressive, though he still posted a strong 111 OPS+. The 29-year-old's expected stats show a bit more concern, though, as his xwOBA for 2024 ranked in just the 32nd percentile. Dynasty managers may not want to make any moves quite yet, but they should certainly keep a close eye on Bellinger's production and temper expectations.

Chicago Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger (finger) is starting in right field and is batting cleanup for the Cubbies on Friday at Wrigley Field against the Toronto Blue Jays and rookie right-hander Yariel Rodriguez. Bellinger had been limited to designated-hitter duties for the Cubs since returning from a fractured middle finger on his left hand, but he's feeling good enough now to play defense. Since coming off the injured list on July 30, Bellinger has been swinging a hot bat, batting .320 (16-for-50) with three home runs, a double, nine RBI, a stolen base and nine runs scored in 13 games played. Bellinger returning to the outfield doesn't change much for fantasy managers; he should remain in starting lineups against Rodriguez, a pitcher he has yet to face in his career.