3 Chicago Cubs players who will shatter expectations in 2023

3. Cody Bellinger

Former Dodgers center fielder Cody Bellinger has the potential for a monster season. He signed a one-year deal with the Cubs in the offseason worth $17.5 million. Since the Cubs' top prospect, Pete Crow-Armstrong is one of the most touted outfielders in the minor leagues, and his development will likely take one more season, Bellinger will serve as the perfect stop-gap until Armstrong is ready for the bigs.

In addition to being a highly proficient defender with a cannon arm, and a great baserunner, Bellinger has the ability to be the best hitter in the Cubs lineup this year. He has three separate seasons of 25+ homers under his belt, not to mention his monstrous 2019 MVP season where he also secured the silver slugger award. Yes, the last few seasons have been a struggle at the plate for the left-handed hitter, but a year at Wrigley Field will likely be beneficial for his offensive production. At just 27 years old, Bellinger could earn himself a huge payday with a big year.