Chicago Cubs Rumors: Cody Bellinger's contract decision still undecided

Before there are any significant moves made by the Chicago Cubs this offseason, the first decision that would need to be made involves Cody Bellinger's player option.

It was last Sunday that it was reported that Bellinger is "fully expected" to return to the Cubs next season. The report was from Bob Nightengale and given he didn't cite sources, it read as Nightengale trying to turn his own assumptions into a matter of fact. That is not to take a shot at Nightengale but only to remind everyone that he was dressed by Jed Hoyer last winter after trying to report his own speculation as sourced information.

Locally, the sense is that Bellinger hasn't made his decision yet. In his latest for The Athletic (Subscription Required), Patrick Mooney confirmed Bellinger was undecided while walking through each scenario. It's not much that Cubs fans don't already know but there was a takeaway that was noteworthy.

The Cubs view Bellinger as a good influence on Crow-Armstrong, the rookie center fielder with Gold Glove ability, and the rest of their clubhouse. Bellinger’s family is also comfortable with the setup in Chicago and a training complex near their Arizona home, another aspect of the looming decision to stay or go.

There has been speculation that the Cubs may be hoping that Bellinger opts out. With $52.5MM owed to Bellinger over the next two seasons, the veteran outfielder opting out would clear significant payroll space for the Cubs. But, given the importance of the ascension of Pete Crow-Armstrong, the Cubs may not feel like they are struck with Bellinger in the event that he returns. If Bellinger doesn't opt out, the idea of the Cubs turning around and trading the 2023 National League Comeback Player of the Year this offseason likely isn't realistic.

Bellinger's return to the Cubs will likely limit the offensive improvements the team can make this offseason. The team could double down on its run-prevention ideology and prioritize pursuing a starting pitcher such as Corbin Burnes.