As the MLB offseason drifts deeper into winter, the Chicago Cubs are working out of simple methods to improve their roster by way of free company.
Expectations have been excessive after group management signaled a willingness to spend, however weeks later, Chicago has but to make a transfer that actually shifts the needle. The silence has left followers questioning the place the promised urgency went.
According to an insider, the Cubs are presently “keeping in touch” with free agent Cody Bellinger.
Cubs’ Free Agency Plans Meet Reality
President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer entered the offseason with monetary flexibility, however the market has confirmed cussed. According to Sports Illustrated, a number of reported targets have priced themselves past the Cubs’ inside valuations, main Chicago to again away slightly than overextend. That restraint has steadily narrowed the pool of real looking additions as top-tier choices proceed to return off the board.
What’s raised probably the most eyebrows, nevertheless, is the place the Cubs look like focusing their consideration. Despite a rotation that might clearly profit from added depth or top-end expertise, league chatter suggests Chicago is prioritizing place gamers over pitchers, an method that didn’t sit nicely with elements of the fan base.
Chicago Linked to Bellinger
The Cubs have repeatedly surfaced as a severe suitor for Alex Bregman, one of many premier infielders accessible. More not too long ago, experiences have linked Chicago to Bo Bichette, signaling a willingness to discover daring strikes for elite offensive expertise.
Still, no title generates extra intrigue than Cody Bellinger.
Bellinger spent the 2024 season with the Cubs earlier than touchdown with the New York Yankees, the place he delivered a robust rebound marketing campaign in 2025. A possible reunion has lingered on the periphery of offseason rumors, and now, it is resurfacing.
Insider Buzz Rekindles Reunion Speculation
On Jan. 4, MLB insider Jon Heyman reignited the dialogue by reporting that the Cubs had “checked in on old friend Cody Bellinger,” whereas persevering with conversations with Bregman, Bichette, and different high-end targets. The Yankees stay targeted on re-signing Bellinger, however competitors from the Mets, Dodgers, and Giants complicates the market.
Cubs checked in on previous good friend Cody Bellinger. They’re additionally recognized to be in contact with Bregman, Bichette and different high gamers. The incumbent Yankees stay in talks with Bellinger, their said No. 1 precedence. Mets, Dodgers, Giants are amongst others exhibiting curiosity in Bellinger.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 4, 2026
Earlier within the offseason, rumors recommended Chicago’s talks with Bellinger had cooled, making this renewed contact notable. At the very least, it reveals the Cubs are reassessing choices because the winter unfolds.
Cody Bellinger Will Thrive in Chicago
Bellinger turned in a formidable 12 months in New York, hitting .272 with an .814 OPS, 29 house runs, 98 RBIs, and 13 stolen bases. His energy, athleticism, and defensive versatility make him a priceless piece in practically any lineup.
While the Cubs haven’t got an apparent on a regular basis defensive spot ready for him, Bellinger’s capability to play each the outfield and first base affords flexibility. More importantly, he supplies a dependable middle-of-the-order presence. That’s one thing Chicago’s offense lacked at instances final season.
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