The Chicago Cubs have had a disappointing season in the National League, despite winning back-to-back road games against the American League East-leading Baltimore Orioles and having a three-game winning streak as they prepare for their series finale at Camden Yards. They are currently in last place in the National League Central. While a post All-Star break turnaround is possible, they will have to achieve it without slugger Cody Bellinger.
Bob Nightengale reported on Twitter that Cubs center fielder Cody Bellinger is going on the injured list with a fractured left middle finger after being hit by a pitch.
Cubs CF Cody Bellinger is going on the IL with a fractured left middle finger after getting by a pitch last night.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) July 11, 2024
Bellinger, the former Dodger and 2019 National League MVP, suffered the injury during Wednesday night’s 4-0 win over Baltimore. He was hit by a pitch from relief pitcher Cionel Perez and, despite staying in the game initially, was eventually replaced by Miles Mastrobuoni. As a result, the Cubs placed Bellinger on the Injured List and called up Alexander Canario from Triple-A Iowa to fill his roster spot.
Bellinger is currently hitting .269/.331/.410 (107 OPS+) with nine home runs, 37 RBIs, and five stolen bases. Although these numbers are below his 2023 performance, he has the potential to become a key player again.
Bellinger’s injury could impact the Cubs’ trade plans. The Cubs, currently in last place, might have considered trading Bellinger to acquire future assets. Series victories have been rare for the Cubs since early in the season. They recently won a series against the Los Angeles Angels and have now won two games against the Orioles, but they had not won a three- or four-game series since early May.
The Cubs have struggled with hitting this season and expected Bellinger to replicate his 2023 performance when he hit .307/.357/.525 with 26 home runs, 97 RBIs, 95 runs, and 20 stolen bases. Despite hiring former Brewers manager Craig Counsell, the Cubs have regressed this season, making them potential sellers at the trade deadline.
The Cubs’ playoff hopes are slim as they are 3.5 games behind the New York Mets, who currently hold the third and final National League Wild Card spot. The Cubs would need to surpass five other teams to reach a playoff position. After finishing their series with the Orioles, the Cubs will head to St. Louis for a three-game series against the Cardinals.
