Cody Bellinger , the dynamic slugger for the Chicago Cubs , has made a significant decision regarding his future with the team, exercising his $27.5 million player option for the 2025 season. This decision was first reported by ESPN's Kiley McDaniel and Jeff Passan, ensuring that Bellinger remains a crucial part of the Cubs' lineup for at least one more year.
BREAKING: Chicago Cubs CF/1B Cody Bellinger picked up his $27.5 million player option for the 2025 season and will not be a free agent, sources tell me and @JeffPassan . Bellinger's three-year, $80 million deal with the Cubs last winter highlighted opt-outs after both the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
By foregoing the first opt-out and a $2.5 million buyout, Bellinger has not only solidified his immediate future but also demonstrated a clear commitment to the team and the city of Chicago. During his first year under the contract, Bellinger earned $27.
5 million, and with this recent move, he has now guaranteed himself $60 million of the initial $80 million agreement. The decision is a testament to his belief in the Cubs' project and his desire to deliver a big 2025 season, which could potentially pave the way for another lucrative long-term contract. Despite a challenging 2024 season marred by injuries , including a fractured right rib and a fractured left middle finger, Bellinger displayed resilience and versatility.
Over 569 plate appearances, he maintained a .266/.325/.
426 slash line with 18 home runs, achieving a 109 wRC+ th.