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The Chicago Cubs need to sign Cody Bellinger to a long-term deal
The off-season appears to be trending toward the exact scenario that was speculated to be needed if the Cubs were going to bring back Bellinger on a long-term deal. The New York Yankees made their blockbuster move in acquiring Juan Soto.
Entering the off-season, the Yankees were believed to be the biggest threat to the Cubs for Bellinger. With Soto and Alex Verdugo now added to their outfield mix this off-season, it would seem unlikely that the Yankees would remain in the bidding for Bellinger.
The Cubs, meanwhile, now having missed on a trade for Soto and unable to sign Ohtani, are left without a clear path to their big addition for the off-season. Rhys Hoskins can not be the biggest signing that the Cubs make this winter.
Bringing Bellinger back on a long-term deal would give the Cubs stability in the middle of their lineup while also sending a good message to the clubhouse given the impact the 2023 National League Comeback Player of the Year had on the team last season.