Today was a FANTASTIC day to make Cody Bellinger a Chicago Cub!!!!!!

By: Jacob Zanolla

THEY DID IT. THEY FINALLY DID IT.

Right after I fell asleep, because of course, the Chicago Cubs signed Cody Bellinger to a three year deal with opt outs after year one and two. Jeff Passan broke the news at 1:14 AM, because Jed never sleeps. My family knew he signed before I woke up, so there was some laughter when I jumped out of bed and moved faster than ever to confirm the news. You absolutely love to see it.

BREAKING: Centerfielder Cody Bellinger and the Chicago Cubs are in agreement on a three-year, $80 million contract, sources tell ESPN. Bellinger will receive opt-outs after each of the first two years of the deal. Bellinger, 28, returns to the Cubs after a prolonged free agency.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 25, 2024

This is an INCREDIBLE deal for the Cubs. I’m in shock, and haven’t been able to calm down all morning. Breakfast can wait. The long wait is over, and Jed Hoyer has officially won the staring contest.

Let’s discuss the contract details. 3 years for $80Million, coming out to an AAV of $26.6Million per year. This isn’t the $250M that Boras wanted. This isn’t the $150M that Jed wanted. It’s the perfect scenario for Hoyer and Hawkins.

With opt outs after the first and second year, this can give him security if he absolutely explodes and wins MVP, or something of that caliber. If he doesn’t perform well, the Cubs only have him for 3 years. Short term, not even high AAV, and opt outs to make the deal better for him and Boras.

A big worry with bringing Bellinger back was that Pete Crow-Armstrong would be blocked. This is one big positive with the short term deal. Now that Morel is playing third base, Counsell has more flexibility to move players around.

Ideally I’d love for the Cubs to put PCA in center field, Bellinger at first base, and Busch sharing DH time with someone like Canario.

Overall, this is a fantastic deal for the Cubs. Cody is back. The players are excited. The fans are excited. Opposing teams are scared. Let’s roll

Side note, Jed should absolutely look into a similar deal with Jordan Montgomery. Short term, high AAV, and some opt outs. The division is very winnable, it’s time to take control!!