In a significant blow to the Chicago Cubs, star outfielder Cody Bellinger has been placed on the injured list following a fractured left middle finger. The injury, which transpired during Wednesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles, occurred when Bellinger was hit by a pitch from lefty reliever Cionel Perez in the seventh inning.
Despite the noticeable pain, Bellinger initially remained in the game, a testament to his toughness and dedication to the team. However, he was eventually replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni, signaling the severity of the injury.
Cubs' Immediate Response
In response to Bellinger's sidelining, the Cubs recalled Alexander Canario from Triple-A Iowa. Canario, a 23-year-old prospect, will now have a chance to showcase his skills on the big stage as the Cubs look to fill the void left by Bellinger's absence.
The timing of this injury could not be worse for the Cubs. Entering Thursday, the team holds a 44-49 record and finds itself 10 games back in the National League Central, and 3 1/2 games shy of the NL's final wild-card spot. The loss of one of their key players adds another layer of complexity to their already tumultuous season.
Bellinger's Season and Potential Trade Implications
Heading into the injury, Bellinger was batting .269/.331/.410 (107 OPS+) with nine home runs, 37 runs batted in, and five stolen bases. Although not replicating his stellar 2023 performance, he remains an above-average contributor, with an estimated 1.1 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference's estimates.
Given the Cubs' current standing and Bellinger's contractual situation, many observers are pondering the team's strategy leading up to the trade deadline. Bellinger's three-year contract includes an opt-out clause after each season.
One 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 insider further noted the uncertainty surrounding Bellinger's future with the team, stating, "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."
Assessment of Bellinger's Performance
From a broader perspective, Bellinger's performance this year has been a topic of discussion. "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," remarked another insider. The complexities of his performance metrics add a layer of intrigue to any potential trade discussions.
This complexity might play into the Cubs' hands, or it might not. "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," noted the insider. However, the possibility of a late-season surge could also impact trade value: "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."
Looking Ahead: Cubs' Schedule and Strategy
The Cubs will wrap up their series with the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday before facing the St. Louis Cardinals. It remains to be seen how Bellinger's injury will affect the team's morale and performance in these crucial games.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Cubs must weigh their options carefully. Bellinger's injury and subsequent recovery period will undoubtedly factor into their decision-making process. Will they opt to trade their star outfielder, or will they keep him on the roster, banking on his potential to rebound? Only time will reveal the answers.
For now, all eyes will be on how the Cubs navigate this latest challenge in what has been a season full of ups and downs.