Trading For This Cubs Outfielder Could Be Exactly What The Guardians Need

The Cleveland Guardians should have the Chicago Cubs' Cody Bellinger on their radar leading up to the MLB Trade Deadline.

Tommy Wild | Jul 15, 2023

Trading For This Cubs Outfielder Could Be Exactly What The Guardians Need /

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The MLB Trade deadline is two weeks away and the hot stove is going to start heating up. The Cleveland Guardians are in a position to reach the postseason again, but they need to be buyers at the deadline to give themselves a better chance.

If they are going to trade for an upgrade, it should be for an outfielder.

The Chicago Cubs are one of those teams who may look to trade away some of their talent to gain some prospects back in return. They're 7.0 games out of first place as of Saturday and the Wild Card path isn't any easier.

If the Cubs decide to move anyone, high up on that list could be outfielder Cody Bellinger.

Bellinger is a former MVP when he played for the Los Angeles Dodgers but lost his groove when battling through a couple of injuries. Chicago gave him a "prove it" one-year contract of $17.5 million last offseason and he's been able to have a resurgent season because of it.

Cody is currently batting .302 with an OPS of .875 on the season. He's also hit 11 home runs and knocked in 31 RBI showing he still has some of that power. He's gaining his confidence back and showing that on the field.

Belli 💣

Cody Bellinger is a triple away from the cycle!

(via @Cubs)pic.twitter.com/Mv9iTxMfbi
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) July 6, 2023

The defense is also an area where Bellinger shines. He ranks in the 90th percentile in OAA and the 81st percentile in arm strength.

The Guardians have been a team that always values defense in the outfield. That's why Myles Straw plays every day. Trading for Bellinger would keep that defense mindset intact while also adding a massive boost to the lineup.

Also, Cleveland probably wouldn't have to give up too much since he's on an expiring contract and would most likely be a rental. This trade is definitely something worth exploring if the Guardians are serious about contending for the AL Central this season.

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Published Jul 15, 2023

TOMMY WILD