Will Cody Bellinger's 2025 Struggles Affect His Future Contract?

Michael

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Post on May 13, 2025

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Will Cody Bellinger's 2025 Struggles Affect His Future Contract? A Look at the Cubs Outfielder's Uncertain Future

Cody Bellinger's 2025 season hasn't unfolded as many hoped. After a resurgent 2023 with the Chicago Cubs, showcasing glimpses of his former MVP form, Bellinger's performance this year has dipped, raising significant questions about his future contract negotiations. The question on everyone's mind: will his recent struggles impact his earning potential?

The 28-year-old outfielder signed a one-year, $17.5 million contract with the Cubs in 2024, a gamble that seemed to pay off initially. His 2023 season saw a marked improvement in his batting average and power numbers, reviving hopes that he could return to his peak performance levels. However, his 2025 performance has been far less impressive, leading many to wonder if his resurgence was a fleeting moment or a sign of things to come.

Analyzing Bellinger's 2025 Dip:

Several factors could contribute to Bellinger's decreased production in 2025. These include:

• Injury: Even minor injuries can significantly impact a player's performance, affecting their swing mechanics and overall ability. Any undisclosed injuries or lingering effects from past injuries could be playing a role.
• Adjustments by Opposing Teams: As Bellinger showed signs of recovery, opposing teams likely adjusted their pitching strategies to exploit any weaknesses in his swing. This could be a significant contributing factor to his struggles.
• Natural Regression: After a standout season, a slight regression is not uncommon. It's possible that Bellinger's 2023 performance was an outlier and his current numbers represent a more realistic assessment of his current capabilities.
• Age and Wear and Tear: While still relatively young, the wear and tear of a Major League Baseball career can take its toll.

The Impact on Future Contracts:

Bellinger's current struggles will undoubtedly influence the value of his next contract. While he remains a valuable player with considerable potential, teams will be less willing to pay a premium for a player whose performance has fluctuated so dramatically. His agent will need to carefully navigate negotiations, highlighting his past successes while acknowledging and addressing his recent struggles. The Cubs themselves will face a difficult decision; do they commit long-term to a player with proven potential but inconsistent performance, or look elsewhere for consistent offensive production?

What's Next for Bellinger?

The remainder of the 2025 season will be crucial for Bellinger. A strong finish could significantly improve his market value, demonstrating resilience and a continued commitment to improvement. However, a continued slump may force him to accept a less lucrative contract or consider other options to reignite his career. This situation will be closely monitored by baseball analysts and fans alike.

Related Articles:

• [Link to an article about Bellinger's 2023 season]
• [Link to an article about MLB contract negotiations]

Conclusion:

Cody Bellinger's future remains uncertain. His 2025 struggles are a significant factor that will undoubtedly influence his future contract negotiations. Whether he can recapture his past brilliance and command a substantial contract remains to be seen. The coming months will be decisive in shaping the next chapter of his career. Only time will tell if he can overcome these challenges and secure a rewarding contract reflecting his full potential.