Cody Bellinger has committed to returning to the Chicago Cubs on a three-year, $80 million contract. The deal, which includes opt-out clauses after the 2024 and 2025 seasons, came after Bellinger’s successful one-year stint with the Cubs in 2023. Following several lackluster seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the 2019 MVP sought a fresh start with Chicago, where he posted a .307 batting average with 26 home runs and 20 stolen bases [[❞]](https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/mlb/news/cody-bellinger-contract-details-cubs/d30e177a9e46badf2d6284f4) [[❞]](https://www.mlb.com/news/cody-bellinger-discusses-re-signing-with-cubs). His performance was a significant improvement over previous years and played a key role in revitalizing his career.
Bellinger’s decision to re-sign with the Cubs was driven by both his individual success and the team’s potential. The Cubs narrowly missed the playoffs in 2023, and Bellinger expressed a strong desire to help the team take the next step. He emphasized his commitment to returning with one primary goal: leading the Cubs to the postseason [[❞]](https://www.mlb.com/news/cody-bellinger-discusses-re-signing-with-cubs).
The three-year deal, while lucrative, is shorter than some expected for a player of Bellinger’s caliber. It includes a $30 million salary for 2024, putting him among the highest-paid position players. However, the shorter-term structure, combined with the opt-out options, allows Bellinger the flexibility to test free agency again if he has another standout season [[❞]](https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/mlb/news/cody-bellinger-contract-details-cubs/d30e177a9e46badf2d6284f4).
Bellinger’s defensive versatility, playing both center field and first base, is a key asset for the Cubs, who value his contributions both on and off the field. His return was met with enthusiasm from teammates and fans alike, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the Cubs’ future [[❞]](https://www.mlb.com/news/cody-bellinger-cubs-deal-2024) [[❞]](https://www.mlb.com/news/cody-bellinger-discusses-re-signing-with-cubs).
