Bellinger's 2025 Slump: A Contract Reset On The Horizon?

Michael

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Post on May 13, 2025

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Bellinger's 2025 Slump: A Contract Reset on the Horizon?

Cody Bellinger's once-bright star has dimmed considerably in 2024. After a promising start to his career, culminating in an MVP award in 2019, the former Los Angeles Dodgers star has struggled to recapture his former glory. Now, with his contract nearing its end, questions are swirling about his future and the possibility of a significant contract reset in 2025. His current performance raises crucial questions for both Bellinger and his prospective teams.

A Fall From Grace: Analyzing Bellinger's 2024 Dip

Bellinger's 2024 season has been marked by a consistent lack of power and a significant drop in batting average. His struggles aren't limited to one area; his overall game has suffered, impacting his on-base percentage and runs batted in (RBI). This decline, after previous injury-related setbacks, has led many baseball analysts to speculate on the reasons behind his underperformance. Is it a lingering physical issue? A slump in confidence? Or a combination of factors? Whatever the cause, the numbers are undeniable, and they paint a concerning picture for his future earning potential.

The Contract Conundrum: Negotiating a New Deal

Bellinger's current contract is set to expire after the 2024 season. Given his recent struggles, his next contract is likely to be significantly less lucrative than many predicted just a few years ago. Teams will be cautious, carefully weighing his potential for a return to form against the risk of another underwhelming season. This puts Bellinger in a difficult position, needing to prove himself worthy of a substantial long-term deal while simultaneously navigating the pressure of a potentially career-defining year.

Potential Scenarios for 2025 and Beyond:

Several scenarios could unfold as Bellinger approaches free agency:

• A Short-Term, Incentive-Laden Deal: This option would allow Bellinger to prove his worth over a shorter period, potentially earning a larger contract later if he performs well. This type of contract is common for players coming off a down year.
• A Team-Friendly, Low-Risk Contract: Some teams might be willing to take a chance on Bellinger, offering a lower salary with performance-based incentives. This would minimize risk for the team while providing Bellinger an opportunity to rebuild his value.
• A Minor League Deal: A less likely, but possible, scenario involves Bellinger signing a minor league contract, aiming to work his way back to the majors and prove his capabilities. This would be a significant step down, but could be a necessary path to redemption.

The Impact of Advanced Metrics:

Beyond the traditional batting statistics, advanced metrics paint a more nuanced picture of Bellinger's struggles. His decline in exit velocity, hard-hit percentage, and overall batting performance, as measured by metrics like wOBA (weighted on-base average) and OPS (on-base plus slugging), clearly demonstrate the extent of his downturn. These metrics provide a deeper understanding of his current challenges and will play a crucial role in contract negotiations.

Looking Ahead: Can Bellinger Rebound?

The 2025 season will be pivotal for Bellinger. He needs to demonstrate significant improvement to command a substantial contract. His ability to adapt, refine his approach, and overcome his current struggles will ultimately determine his future in Major League Baseball and whether he can secure a significant contract reset. The baseball world will be watching closely. Will he rise to the challenge, or will this slump define his legacy? Only time will tell.