The Chicago Cubs missed the postseason in 2024 and need to shake things up to win the National League Central in 2025. They could cut ties with an All-Star player this winter.

While making predictions for the Major League Baseball Winter Meetings, Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller predicted that the Cubs would trade Cody Bellinger to the Seattle Mariners. The Cubs have reportedly been shopping Bellinger, hoping to get rid of his contract. He opted into a $27.5 million option for 2025.

“That’s a ton of money for a guy who was only particularly productive in one of the past four seasons, especially given the long list of quality first base or corner outfield bats still available in free agency,” wrote Miller. “The Cubs are probably going to need to include a decent chunk of change or another player (Nico Hoerner?) to grease the trade wheels. But Seattle is desperate for bats and has plenty of trade assets to offer—both in the form of MLB-level pitching and high-potential, low-level-minors bats.”

The Mariners ranked 29th in batting average, 21st in runs and 22nd in OPS. Bellinger had a down year for the Cubs in 2024, but could still be an asset for the Mariners. He hit .266 with 18 home runs last year. The Cubs likely do not feel he is worth the $27.5 million he is due for 2025. His down season likely means the Cubs will have to eat some of the money on his deal to trade him.

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