Cody Bellinger has confirmed his decision to exercise his player option worth $27.5 million with the Chicago Cubs, effectively resolving a significant offseason concern for the franchise.
This confirmation came on Saturday from a source close to the situation who chose to remain anonymous as the team had not yet made an official announcement.
In the recent season, Bellinger posted a batting average of .266, coupled with 18 home runs and 78 runs batted in (RBIs) over the course of 130 games. Notably, he spent some time on the injured list from late April until early May due to a right rib fracture.
In the latter part of the season, he was particularly productive, driving in 33 runs in his final 39 appearances. However, despite Bellinger’s efforts, the Cubs concluded the season with a record of 83-79, marking the fourth consecutive year they failed to qualify for the playoffs.
Bellinger, who is capable of playing both first base and center field, began his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he spent six seasons. During his impressive tenure, he earned the National League MVP title in 2019, finishing that season with a .305 batting average, 47 home runs, and 115 RBIs across 156 games. He was also part of the Dodgers squad that won the World Series in 2020.
His journey took a turn when he was released by the Dodgers in November 2022, leading him to sign a one-year deal worth $17.5 million with the Cubs the following month. Bellinger rebounded strongly with Chicago, achieving a career-high batting average of .307, alongside 26 home runs, 97 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases during the past season.
After exploring free agency, he re-signed with the Cubs in February on a three-year contract valued at $80 million. As part of this deal, he also secured a player option for $25 million in 2026, which includes a $5 million buyout payable in two installments due on January 15 of 2026 and 2027.
Throughout his career, Bellinger has maintained a .259 batting average, accumulating 196 home runs and 597 RBIs in 1,005 games played. He is set to celebrate his 30th birthday in July.