The Cubs may secretly hope that the two-time Silver Slugger will forego a return of $27.5 million

The Chicago Cubs are out of the playoff race and are under a lot of pressure to find a solution to turn things around for 2025 and beyond.

However, the team's near future could largely depend on the decision of a single player.

The Cubs signed two-time Silver Slugger and former MVP Cody Bellinger to a three-year, $88 million deal in the offseason, hoping to do well in the postseason. Since he was looking for something more long-term, this contract includes opt-out options for players after this season and next. That gives Bellinger the opportunity to test the market again instead of taking the $27.5 million he would make in 2025 if he returns to the Cubs.

Now, despite Bellinger's strong season and numerous accolades, the Cubs may be hoping he will decline that return.

“With rookies Michael Busch and Pete Crow-Armstrong both putting together strong rookie seasons, it's fair to ask whether the Chicago Cubs really needed to bring back Cody Bellinger this past offseason,” Joel Reuter wrote for Bleacher Report. “Now he's facing a decision on a $27.5 million player option for next season, and the Cubs may be secretly hoping he opts out so they can use the money to fill a more pressing roster need.”

Bellinger posted a .266/.326/.429 batting average this season for a Cubs team that struggled collectively on offense, well below the .307/.356/.525 batting average that earned him National League Comeback Player of the Year honors in his debut season with Chicago in 2023.

If he leaves, the team would have a little more flexibility on the roster to meet their larger needs, as their defensive positions can be covered by younger and cheaper players like Busch and Crow-Armstrong.

An exit could also make sense for Bellinger. Although his numbers have dropped somewhat, he could find a long-term deal elsewhere. And while the Cubs might prefer to see him go, they can still hope to reposition next season with or without him.

“Either way, the Cubs will be OK with Bellinger's decision,” Patrick Mooney wrote for The Athletic. “Bellinger, 29, is a former MVP with a World Series ring, a versatile skill set and good relationships with his teammates and coaches… If Bellinger decides to re-examine his options as a free agent, the Cubs can multiply their financial space this winter, fill his key positions internally… and look for reinforcements in other areas.”

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