5 free agent signings that would make the Cubs World Series contenders in 2024

2. OF/1B Cody Bellinger

We all know how great Cody Bellinger has been this year, but again I am asking Jed Hoyer to give the man whatever money he wants (within reason). His .324 batting average ranks 5th in the entire league while he leads the Cubs in on-base percentage (.372), slugging percentage (.561), and RBIs (64). Bellinger also ranks second on the team in runs scored (71) and stolen bases (17) while his 20 home runs are tied for first. Coming to Chicago has simply unlocked the former greatness in Bellinger and he's putting up incredible numbers despite missing a month of the season.

Resigning the guy is an obvious no-brainer, and I think his future with the Cubs is as the everyday first baseman. Every player who has been given a shot at first base this year has failed, including Eric Hosmer, Trey Mancini, Jarred Young, and Matt Mervis. While I think it's too early to completely give up on Mervis, Bellinger would be an immediate and complete fix to the years-long first base problem. He plays gold glove defense at the position, hits for power, and serves as the team's premiere player.

And moving Bellinger away from center field permanently will be fine because it just so happens the Cubs have arguably the best defensive prospect in the minor leagues on the precipice of getting called up to MLB. Pete Crow-Armstrong will be here soon and I can't think of anyone else I'd want patrolling center field besides maybe Mike Trout.