MLB Rumors: Justin Verlander’s Tigers return, Mets prospect on deck, Cubs extension

MLB Rumors: Could the Cubs extend Cody Bellinger already?

If Cody Bellinger continues to hit like this, he could be one of the best free agents on the market next offseason.

Bellinger signed a one-year contract with the Cubs this winter with a mutual option for another season. In order for that option to kick in, both parties must agree to it. Belliinger is slashing .303/.377/.596 with seven home runs in 26 games. If he keeps hitting like this, odds are he will exercise an opt out, as the extra year is worth just $12 million and he could earn far more on the open market.

Chicago took a flyer on Bellinger, which looks like a great move now. If they can get Bellinger’s agent to the negotiating table early, perhaps they can sign him to an extension, rather than leave things to chance this offseason.

Of course, there is always the risk that Bellinger regresses to the mean. The thought of extending him now is that the Cubs have that bargaining chip, whereas if they wait, they provide Bellinger’s team with more ammo to use, which will likely lead to a far larger contract number.

It’s a dilemma, and a good one to have at that. Neither the Cubs nor baseball pundits expected this kind of output from the former Dodgers star right away.

“Every day is a grind just because the game is so hard,” Bellinger said. “Just wake up and prepare the best I can and get my body in position to help this team win.”

Whatever Bellinger is doing is working. Every home run helps his team win, and increases his overall value.