Cody Bellinger’s stay in Chicago will likely cause the Cubs to miss out on a top prize

Instead of testing free agency this offseason, Cody Bellinger has decided to stay put and enter the 2025 MLB campaign with Chicago Cubs.

According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Bellinger has decided to stay in Chicago. The veteran utility man has two years and $52.5 million remaining on his current contract, including an additional player option for 2026. So he bypasses the open market, knowing that there will be another opportunity to do so in the future.

Given his inconsistency and durability issues over the years, Bellinger likely made a financially responsible decision. However, he has shied away from the possibility of a long-term deal this winter. But more importantly, from a broader perspective, his selection effectively eliminated the Cubs from the Juan Soto sweepstakes.

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Soto retired in his rookie season with the New York Yankees en route to a trip to the World Series. Entering the free agent market and reportedly considering a $700 million contractThe four-time All-Star made it clear it’s open for business. However, Bellinger appears to have taken the Cubs out of the running for his services.

Given Chicago’s investment in Bellinger in 2025 and possibly next season, they likely won’t add Soto’s high salary to their payroll. So, the Cubs may have won the battle to retain their slugger, but they allegedly lost the war.

While the Cubs are more of a dark horse for Soto, they are on the right track. shortlist of chances for next team. Alas, the club’s hopes of a successful transfer for the 26-year-old are being squandered by Bellinger. However, Chicago left itself vulnerable to such situations by providing the latter with several opt-out clauses in its pact.

Ultimately, Bellinger is a big fish in a small pond for the Cubs, considering Soto was (was) there to catch him. Either way, Chicago will welcome the former MVP back. However, having the flexibility to find a top free agent this year could be the preferred outcome.