Chicago Cubs center fielder Cody Bellinger. Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports

Former MVP set for massive payday this offseason?

Originally posted on WI Sports Heroics | By Tyler Koerth_ | Last updated 9/4/23

The Chicago Cubs have received great play from a healthy Cody Bellinger this season. He is putting together his best year since he won MVP in 2019 and he is in line to benefit greatly after signing a contract last offseason in which he bet on himself.

Early rumors are indicating that Bellinger has done well enough this year to land the second biggest deal in free agency this offseason. Shohei Ohtani will be the first, but between Bellinger’s play so far this year and the fact that he is represented by Scott Boras, it’s easy to see how the 28 year old is in a good position. The biggest question is how much will he get paid?

In Bob Nightengale’s latest notebook he discussed what the price tag on Bellinger may be as well as some teams who could be the most aggressive pursuing the former MVP.

The price-tag will be heavy, exceeding $200 million, perhaps even seeking more than $300 million.

The most aggressive suitors are expected to be: The Cubs, San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres and New York Yankees.

After betting on himself last offseason, it would make sense that Boras would want Bellinger to cash in and secure a long term contract north of $200M. At that asking price, it's likely that wherever Bellinger lands will be his home for the next decade or so.

This article first appeared on WI Sports Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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