During the early stages of free agency, the Chicago Cubs were unable to sign some of their top targets. Shohei Ohtani agreed to terms with the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Juan Soto was dealt to the New York Yankees.
As the Cubs look for ways to improve, reuniting with former star Cody Bellinger is one possibility. The slugger, who had a prove-it year with Chicago in 2023, is expected to be compensated for his performance at the plate.
There are still questions about the former MVP, particularly his 87.9 mph average exit velocity, which ranks in the 22nd percentile according to Baseball Savant.
That’s usually an indication that regression is on the way, but Bellinger didn’t have to deal with any of that in 2023.
Top prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong has long been projected as the Cubs’ centre fielder. He’s one of the top defensive prospects to come through the minor leagues in a long time, which bodes well for Bellinger’s future.
However, the former MVP shown that he can also play first base, making this position less combustible.
However, the former MVP has demonstrated his ability to play first base, making this position less volatile.
As Feinsand points out, if Bellinger re-signs, the Cubs intend to shift him to first base, and Crow-Armstrong will be ready to play in 2024. Given that the prospect is best recognised for his defence, there isn’t much of an argument regarding who will be the long-term centre fielder.
