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5 optimistic predictions for the Chicago Cubs in 2023
2. Cody Bellinger returns to MVP form
The Cubs just signed Cody Bellinger to a one-year deal worth $17.5 million, meaning he is looking to get paid next offseason. To do that, he will need to show signs of his former self at the plate. While it will be hard to exceed the 7.7 WAR MVP campaign in 2019, getting anything close to the numbers he put up in his first three seasons would suffice.
Cody Bellinger Stats | 2017-2019 | 2020-2022 |
|---|---|---|
Home Runs | 111 | 41 |
RBIs | 288 | 134 |
Doubles | 88 | 46 |
Hits | 443 | 209 |
Walks | 228 | 99 |
Granted, the shortened 2020 season skews these numbers a bit, but the two full seasons after that were still less than satisfactory for Bellinger's production. He is primed for a big bounce back, and it would be mutually beneficial for both him and the Cubs in 2023. Bellinger is looking to earn himself a long-term deal, and the Cubs need a solid Center Fielder until Pete Crow-Armstrong is ready for the big leagues.