2024 Chicago Cubs projected lineup after Cody Bellinger contract

4. Cody Bellinger, 1B

Welcome back, Cody Bellinger. Likely reprising his role as the clean-up man for the Cubs, Bellinger's comeback season was one of the main reasons the team was so close to a playoff berth in 2023. You can look into his advanced metrics all you want, but Bellinger reinvented himself and his approach at the plate. If he can get closer to 150 games this season, there's reason to believe he'll get to 30 HRs/100 RBIs with how many guys in front of him are getting on base.

5. Dansby Swanson, SS

Dansby Swanson is coming off of a dip in offensive production from the year prior when the Cubs decided to ink him to a seven-year deal. I love him in the 5-spot behind Bellinger because if Bellinger is red-hot and gets pitched around often, Swanson will find himself with multiple opportunities to do damage. His elite defense always gives him the potential to be an All-star if the bat follows suit.

6. Michael Busch, DH

Our first prospect to make the list is Michael Busch, the focal point of a trade earlier this winter with the Los Angeles Dodgers. His lefty bat in the lineup helps balance lefty/righty hitters for Counsell when needed, and there won't be many games when the Cubs can't roll out a lineup that opposing pitchers will fear. Last year, Busch hit .323/.431/.618 with 27 homers and 90 RBIs in Triple-A in only 390 at-bats. Anything close to that in the majors will make this lineup one of the best in baseball.