How high will Cody Bellinger go in free agency? He signed a $17.5 million, one-year deal with the Cubs (he looks good for a $1M Comeback Player of the Year bonus as well), but will get many times that.
Agent Scott Boras called him “one of the rare five-tool talents in the major leagues.” And asked where Bellinger stacks up in free agency, agent Scott Boras said, “Ahead of everyone due to age.”
Bellinger, 28, appears headed for his third season with a .900-plus OPS, which equals superstar Mookie Betts before his free agency. Boras said his shoulder injury suffered on a 2020 World Series homer celebration (with Kiké Hernandez) was behind his off years, which led to the one-year contract.
“This guy is a skilled, skilled player,” Boras said. “The injury, because he’s an MVP talent, had a dramatic impact on him. We’re seeing the truth of the matter. He probably shouldn’t have played in 2021.”
Dodgers baseball people appreciated Bellinger’s talent (and willingness to play through the shoulder weakness) and wanted him back but due partly to budgetary constraints didn’t come close to matching the Cubs’ deal. (They also suspected a scenery change might help him.)
Matt Holliday who worked with Bellinger, whose .325 average is nearly double from two years ago, opined that the Cubs are a great spot for Bellinger. But so are the Yankees, who seemed like the best fit had the Cubs sold.
Brett Baty is playing well in the minors and the Mets still envision him as a big-league 3B, but his difficulties in MLB were such that the Mets consider the position unsettled for next season.
Luis Severino has called himself the worst pitcher in baseball. But with his big arm, there’s significant interest in him as a reclamation project in free agency.
The Yankees have sunk so far, the Mets appear better — and better-positioned — right now.