Chicago Cubs' Injury Woes: Cody Bellinger Out with Fractured Finger
The Chicago Cubs dealt a significant blow to their roster as star outfielder Cody Bellinger has been placed on the injured list due to a fractured left middle finger. The injury happened during Wednesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles when Bellinger was struck by a pitch in the seventh inning from left-handed reliever Cionel Perez. Despite initially staying in the game, Bellinger was eventually replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni.
This injury comes at a crucial time for the Cubs, who are currently battling to remain competitive in the National League. Entering Thursday, the Cubs hold a 44-49 record, positioning them ten games back in the National League Central and 3 1/2 games behind the final wild-card spot. These standings put significant pressure on the team as they approach the trade deadline.
To fill the void left by Bellinger's injury, the Cubs have called up Alexander Canario from their Triple-A affiliate, the Iowa Cubs. The 23-year-old Canario will now have an opportunity to step up amid this challenging moment for Chicago. The Cubs' immediate schedule includes wrapping up their series with the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday before facing the St. Louis Cardinals in the following series.
Bellinger's Season and Potential Impact on Trade Deadline
Cody Bellinger, who will turn 29 this Saturday, has had a mixed season so far. He entered Thursday with a batting line of .269/.331/.410 (107 OPS+), accompanied by nine home runs, 37 runs batted in, and five stolen bases. Worth noting, however, is that Bellinger is not having as robust a year as he did in 2023, which poses additional considerations for the Cubs as the trade deadline approaches.
Bellinger’s contributions have added up to an estimated 1.1 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) according to Baseball Reference's estimates. Given his three-year contract that allows him to opt out after each season, there's growing speculation about whether the Cubs should consider trading him. An insider mentioned, "With the way the season has spiraled for the Cubs, we think they have to at least contemplate listening to offers for Bellinger."
However, the situation is far from straightforward. "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," noted the insider. This dynamic could either complicate trade talks or make Bellinger more appealing to certain teams.
Concerns Over Bellinger's Profile
Despite his injury and the fact that his season hasn't matched his previous year's performance, Bellinger remains an attractive asset. "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," observed another insider. This uncertainty could lead potential trading teams to leverage the Cubs into accepting lesser returns.
On the other side of the coin, Bellinger's above-average contributions and ability to play center field remain valuable. "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," as an insider aptly summarized.
Strategic Decisions Ahead for the Cubs
The Cubs' front office now faces a test of strategic acumen as they navigate the weeks leading up to the trade deadline. Decisions regarding Bellinger's future with the team could significantly impact the roster's dynamics, competitive outlook, and long-term plans. The next games, including the series against the Orioles and Cardinals, could be pivotal in shaping those decisions.
This injured-list stint for Bellinger comes at an inopportune moment for the Cubs, amplifying their roster challenges just as trade speculations reach a peak. The outcomes over the next few weeks will likely shed light on the direction Chicago aims to take for the remainder of the season.