Cody Bellinger Rejects Option, Becomes Free Agent

Chicago Cubs star Cody Bellinger has become a free agent after rejecting his option.

The MLB offseason and free agency is in full swing and the first dominoes for the Chicago Cubs are starting to fall as they begin to plot out their winter plans.

The club announced on Friday that 2019 National League MVP Cody Bellinger had declined his mutual option for the 2024 MLB season. The option, had he accepted it, would have paid the slugger $12 million next year, the same amount he earned this season.

It was an obvious move by Bellinger and one that was nearly guaranteed to happen. Bellinger slashed .307/.356/.525 with 26 home runs in 2023. He will now lead the class of hitters in free agency and has immediately become the most coveted slugger on the market.

Bellinger had down years leading into 2023 due to a shoulder injury. Chicago took a chance on him and he rebounded in a massive way, earning the 2023 Comeback Player of the Year. 

There is still a distinct possibility that Bellinger could re-sign with the Cubs, but he will be looking for a long-term deal after re-establishing his value this past year.

In other moves by the club, the Cubs declined their option on Brad Boxberger and he is also now a free agent. Boxberger pitched to a 4.95 ERA in just 20.0 innings pitched this season. His removal from the 40-man roster was another unsurprising cut by Chicago.

The active roster is now at 40 for the Cubs and will be able to start making acquisitions to address third base, the outfield and the bullpen as they see fit. Additionally, they could look to add another starter to their rotation as they aim for a postseason berth in 2024.