The Chicago Cubs are entering a crucial phase of the 2024 season. Amid their struggles, their outlook has shifted significantly.
Initially, the Cubs were expected to be postseason contenders and were likely to be buyers ahead of the MLB trade deadline. However, those aspirations have diminished.
Now, it seems Chicago might become sellers. Players may be playing for their jobs in the coming weeks.
If the Cubs can’t turn their season around soon, Jed Hoyer might have no choice but to start selling talent. Several players on the roster would interest other teams.
One such player is star first baseman and outfielder Cody Bellinger.
Bellinger’s name has started to circulate in the MLB rumor mill. Other teams are noticing Chicago’s struggles and are scouting their talent as potential trade targets.
FanSided has suggested a trade idea involving Bellinger being sent to the Atlanta Braves. In this proposal, the Cubs would acquire right-hander JR Ritchie, catcher Drake Baldwin, left-hander Dylan Dodd, and outfielder Jesse Franklin V in exchange for Bellinger.
Ritchie is currently the No. 4 ranked prospect in the Braves’ system, Baldwin is No. 11, Dodd is No. 15, and Franklin is No. 26.
For Atlanta, this would be a no-brainer. Bellinger would significantly boost their chances this season and possibly in the future. He has two years left on his contract, with potential outs for both seasons. Bellinger could opt out and negotiate a long-term deal with the Braves if things go well.
So far this season, Bellinger has played in 72 games, batting .267/.327/.416 with nine home runs and 34 RBIs. His production is lower than last year, but there’s still plenty of time to improve.
While this trade is far from being a real offer, it makes sense for both parties.
If the Cubs decide to entertain trade offers for Bellinger, Atlanta would be a logical suitor.