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Back in Blue: Cody Bellinger's Grand Return to Wrigley Field

From Contract Clauses to Clubhouse Cheers: How Bellinger's Comeback is Shaping the Cubs' Future

Author

Superfan Mark Franzen
February 26th, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes

The Bellinger Bonanza: Cubs Roll the Dice Again

Alright folks, grab your popcorn because the Cubs just pulled off a sequel movie that's got everyone talking. Yes, Cody Bellinger is back in the Windy City, and this time, he's pocketing a cool $80 million over three years. Talk about a payday, huh? The man waited out free agency like a cat stalking its prey, probably hoping for those nine-figure dreams. But hey, $80 million guaranteed isn't too shabby, especially with a sweet opt-out clause after years one and two. It's like he's got a "try before you buy" deal but with millions of dollars on the line.

Shaking Up the Squad: The Bellinger Effect

With Bellinger strutting back into Wrigley, it's like watching a high-stakes game of musical chairs. Christopher Morel's sweating at third base, wondering if he's got to step up his game. Patrick Wisdom might be checking real estate listings, and Michael Busch is probably doing push-ups, thinking, "This is my shot."

  • The Plot Thickens for the Young Guns: Slowing down the hype train for PCA and Michael Busch might just be what the doctor ordered. With expectations dialed back, these kids can breathe, grow, and maybe not have panic attacks when they strike out.

  • Pressure Cooker: Morel's at third base, probably thinking, "Great, now I've got to be Nolan Arenado because Bellinger's back." Meanwhile, Wisdom's out here like, "Was it something I said?"

Superfan Paul wrote this weekend when asked about who this pushes out. He said “PCA or Tauchman may be pushed out with the Belli signing. Maybe Busch a little too. But it also can push someone to DH… Like Morel with the option of Busch at 3rd, Belli at 1B and PCA in Center. Just gives us great options. Well put Superfan Paul!

Weekend Wisdom: My Takeaways

Let's dive into this past weekend's Cubs extravaganza, shall we?

  • Uniform Drama: Took me exactly three pitches to stop caring about the new jerseys. However, the see-through pants might give some folks more excitement than expected during a game.

  • The Voice of the Cubs: Boog Schaimbi, you're a great announcer, but man, you're not bleeding Cubbie blue like some of us. Watching the game with your commentary feels like I'm stuck in ESPN's purgatory. Give me Pat Hughes and his radio magic any day. That man could narrate my grocery shopping, and I'd be on the edge of my seat.

  • Pitch Clock Love: The 18-second pitch clock is a gift from the baseball gods. Makes Spring Training games feel less like a "Lord of the Rings" extended edition.

Prospects Under the Microscope:

  • PCA's Blue Hair: Only cool if you're hitting doubles, kid. But seriously, scoring from second on a groundout? That's the hustle we like to see.

  • Kevin Alcantara, the Rizzo Legacy: This guy's a giant with a glove cooler than most people's entire wardrobe. Fingers crossed he turns into the beast we're all hoping for.

  • Caleb Killian, Throwing Strikes: Came over for Kris Bryant, and if he keeps pitching like this, I might stop crying into my Bryant jersey at night.

So, with Bellinger back in the mix and my personal broadcasting preferences making game-watching a strategic maneuver, this season is shaping up to be one heck of a ride. Let's see if the Cubs can turn these moves and my commentary into a winning formula. Go Cubs Go!

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