In a shocking turn of events, Chicago Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger decided to opt into his player option this offseason rather than opting out and hitting free agency. This was likely done because his 2023 free agency period was such a disaster that he didn’t want to repeat. But now the Cubs have begun floating the idea that they could be trading him. If the Cubs were to flirt with the idea of moving him, they would have no shortage of suitors.

The Cleveland Guardians, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, New York Mets, and Houston Astros all make sense as potential trade destinations. The Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies could be solid landing spots as well. Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer recently looked into whether the Cubs should trade Bellinger or not. Ultimately, Rymer expects the Cubs to hold onto Bellinger.

“There’s also the question of how much trade value Bellinger even has. Baseball Trade Values puts his surplus value relative to what he’s owed at minus-$8.7 million, meaning the Cubs would likely need to eat money to move him,” Rymer wrote. “If the idea is to save money, that would at least partially defeat the purpose. Verdict: Sell.”

Depending on how other teams view Bellinger, this idea could be tough. For me, the Cubs should hold onto him for as long as they plan to compete. He’s a solid bat with high upside and veteran experience. Chicago would be taking a step back when its plan is to move forward if it trades Bellinger now.