Cody Bellinger Buzz: Nightengale’s Exclusive on Cubs’ Negotiation Plan

Cody Bellinger’s free agency saga continues to captivate baseball enthusiasts, especially those on the North Side eagerly awaiting his potential return to the Chicago Cubs. 

The former Cubs center fielder, who garnered acclaim as the NL Comeback Player of the Year, remains unsigned as spring training unfolds, prompting a mix of anticipation and frustration among Cubs fans.

Amid the buzz surrounding Bellinger’s uncertain market, veteran baseball reporter Bob Nightengale shared an intriguing report on how the Cubs are navigating the situation. Nightengale believes the Cubs have played their cards wisely, not succumbing to external pressures and bidding wars.

Nightengale stated, “I think the Cubs have played this smart with Bellinger,” in an interview on “Foul Territory.” He stressed that, in spite of several rumors connecting Bellinger to possible suitors, he hasn’t heard of any other team expressing a strong desire to acquire the outfielder’s services to save the Cubs.

Nightengale’s insights shed light on the Cubs’ strategic approach, drawing parallels to past instances in MLB free agency. He compared the current situation to the Boston Red Sox’s handling of JD. 

Cubs Firm Amid Cody Bellinger Buzz

Martinez’s contract negotiations, where they stood firm on their offer and didn’t engage in a bidding war with themselves. Eventually, Martinez signed with the Red Sox. Contrary to speculation that Bellinger’s market is gaining traction with other teams, Nightengale remains steadfast in his belief that the Cubs are in a strong position. 

Despite reports linking the Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Angels to Cody Bellinger, Nightengale suggests the Cubs are not swayed by external pressures and are presenting a firm offer. “The Cubs are making this offer and saying ‘We’re not gonna bid against ourselves. Either take it or leave it,'” Nightengale explained.

As the Cubs maintain their approach, the baseball world watches with keen interest to see if Bellinger will ultimately don the Cubs uniform once again or if another team will step forward with a compelling offer. 

The strategic stance taken by the Cubs underscores their commitment to securing Bellinger on their terms, without succumbing to a potentially inflated market. The unfolding chapters of this offseason drama continue to captivate fans and pundits alike.