Padres Rumors: Friars Expected to Be In on Cody Bellinger in Free Agency

Never shy for starry additions.

A common practice with the current Padres' regime has been the tendency to chase star talents whether it be through trades for big All-Star names or signing premier free agents to bolster the roster. 

On that latter front, one name to keep an eye on is current Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger, whose stellar season for Chicago could attract some big free-agent suitors including San Diego. 

In a column on USA Today over the weekend, MLB insider Bob Nightengale briefly touched on what he's heard involving the resurgent slugger.

The most aggressive suitors are expected to be: The Cubs, San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres and New York Yankees. The price-tag will be heavy, exceeding $200 million, perhaps even seeking more than $300 million.

via Bob Nightengale, USA Today

Bellinger had some exciting moments in Los Angeles with the Dodgers after becoming the 2017 NL Rookie of the Year and winning the NL MVP award in 2019. 

Despite having some down seasons in 2018 and 2020 individually, the Dodgers won the pennant in both years with 2020's playoffs providing some highlight moments from the outfielder. 

Both robbing home runs and hitting pivotal ones en route to winning it all, Bellinger had an eventful four year stint in Los Angeles to start his career. 

Though his defense in center remained spectacular, Bellinger's bat completely fell apart in 2021 and 2022, a phenomenon pinned on a shoulder issue that hindered him in the World Series winning year. 

Signing a one year flier deal with the Cubs, the gamble has more than paid off for the NL Central team as Bellinger has hit 22 home runs with an OPS above .900 for the first time since that MVP year in 2019. 

Adding in his great defense and speed on the bases with nearly 20 stolen bags and Bellinger's addition to an already potent Padre core could put the club in prime position for success for years to come.

Though this year hasn't been up to the Friars' standard, Bellinger's arrival could mean a different result for 2024.