Chicago Cubs fans received troubling news on Thursday as it was announced that star outfielder Cody Bellinger has been placed on the injured list following a fractured left middle finger. The injury occurred during Wednesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles when Bellinger was hit by a pitch from lefty reliever Cionel Perez in the seventh inning. Although Bellinger initially stayed in the game, he was eventually replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni.
This development comes at a critical juncture for the Cubs. Entering Thursday, the team held a 44-49 record, sitting 10 games back in the National League Central and 3 1/2 games shy of securing the NL's final wild-card spot. Bellinger, who will turn 29 this Saturday, has been a key contributor this season, batting .269/.331/.410 (107 OPS+) with nine home runs, 37 RBIs, and five stolen bases.
Roster Adjustments
To fill the void left by Bellinger's absence, the Cubs have recalled Alexander Canario from Triple-A Iowa. At 23 years old, Canario represents a youthful infusion of talent, though it remains to be seen how the young outfielder will adapt to the major league level. This roster move underscores the Cubs' immediate need for stability as they navigate the challenges of their current schedule, which includes wrapping up their series with the Orioles before facing off against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Impact on Trade Deadline Strategy
Bellinger's injury adds a layer of complexity to the Cubs' approach as the trade deadline looms. 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." Given that Bellinger's three-year contract allows him to opt-out after each season, there is no guarantee he will remain on Chicago's roster come Opening Day 2025.
While Bellinger is not matching his stellar performance from 2023, he still brings significant value to the team. As noted by an insider, "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." Nonetheless, his contributions, estimated at 1.1 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference, make him an attractive asset for potential suitors.
Potential Outcomes and Market Value
The uncertainty surrounding Bellinger's contract and performance raises questions about his trade market value. One insider suggested, "That, in turn, could make it more likely that he stays in place—either because teams are concerned he'll opt-in and decline, or because teams try to use that possibility to leverage the Cubs into a worse return." Yet, there's also a chance that Bellinger could elevate his performance, thus changing the equation. "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 insider added.
Future Considerations
The Cubs face significant decisions in the short term that will impact their long-term strategy. With Bellinger sidelined, the focus will inevitably shift to how well the team can perform without one of their star players. In the meantime, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close watch on Alexander Canario and how he handles the pressure of stepping up in a critical moment.
Bellinger's injury is a substantial setback for a Cubs team already grappling with inconsistency. How the Cubs' management responds in the coming weeks—balancing immediate needs with future aspirations—will be crucial. The clock is ticking as the trade deadline approaches, and every decision will shape the franchise's trajectory in the seasons to come.