Padres Rumors: Former NL MVP Could Land in San Diego, According to MLB Insider
Padres fans best remember, or worst remember, Cody Bellinger for robbing Fernando Tatis of a home run in the 2020 playoffs. This upcoming year Bellinger could repay the Padres for that robbery.
According to a MLB Insider Zach Rymer, the former 2019 NL MVP could make his way to San Diego this offseason,
What better way to make amends for a past transgression than to help that team reach new heights?
Bellinger signed a one-year prove-it deal in Chicago in 2022 after the Dodgers non-tendered him. In that year, the premier center fielder slashed .307/.356/.881 with 26 home runs and 20 stolen bases. He more than raised his market value and set himself up for a nice payday this offseason.
Positionally this is a match made in heaven for the Friars. Trent Grisham, despite being arguably the best defensive center fielder, has not provided much at the plate. In 4 years in San Diego, Grisham has hit 55 home runs and a .695 OPS. Bellinger provides equal to, or minimally less, value defensively while providing enormous offensive upside. Not to mention, Bellinger made his debut with the Dodgers as a first baseman. So, the Padres could sign him to also be a first baseman towards the end of his contract.
For Bellinger, he obviously has familiarity with the area and the club. He grew up in Arizona and played six years just up the 5 freeway. He knows the players in San Diego, and to boot he is a great clubhouse presence. This would, in essence, be a homecoming for the superstar.
If the Padres can straighten out their financials for 2024, signing Cody Bellinger would move the needle in favor of the club getting back to the postseason.
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