Cody Bellinger is one of the best free agents left in the market, and possibly the best position player. The former NL MVP had a massive season with the Chicago Cubs after 3 struggle-filled seasons to end his Los Angeles Dodgers tenure. Now Bellinger is set to reap the benefits of his standout season in free agency. But things are not easy.

Talks have slowed down, as teams assess their options before making a big commitment. Furthermore, the 2023 NL Comeback Player of the Year is due for a massive contract. One thing seems to be almost certain, a reunion with the Cubs is something both parties need to make a reality. 

Cody Bellinger and the Cubs need each other 

Cody Bellinger revived his career with the Cubs through a great 2023 season and looks set to get back on track. This makes a return to the North Side a great option. Furthermore, Chicago needs him too, considering how much he offers as a hitter and his versatility on the field. Bellinger is also a proven winner and picked up a World Series title with the Dodgers in 2020. This will also prove important for the team going forward. 

Most importantly, the Cubs are beginning a new are under freshly-appointed manager Craig Counsell, and they need as much star power as they can get. The team missed out on Juan Soto and Shohei Ohtani. Now Bellinger may be the only top star left that matches their needs. Furthermore, he would continue to be a great fit alongside Seiya Suzuki and Dansby Swanson. 

It will be interesting to see how talks progress as the off-season goes on. But Cody Bellinger and the Cubs should try and reach an agreement. The 28-year-old star seems to have loved his time on the North Side, and a return would be great for both. There seems to be only one problem. 

Bellinger’s price tag seems to be the issue

At the moment, Cody Bellinger’s price tag poses a major roadblock. He and super agent Scott Boras seem to be pushing for a deal near the $300 million range. But teams seem to be balking at this price, leaning more toward $200 million or less. But Boras seems to be pushing for a Cubs deal to happen, although nothing is confirmed. Only time will tell how these negotiations go amidst a crucial off-season. 

Cody Bellinger and the Chicago Cubs need each other. Now they just have to wait until the price and duration of the contract fall in place. Do you think Bellinger will return to the North Side this off-season? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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