ESPN Insider Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan on “X”) mentioned how the Blue Jays are more desperate for Cody Bellinger than the Chicago Cubs in an interview with ESPN Chicago. Passan states, “I don’t think the desperation is there the same way it is with the Blue Jays.” With Toronto losing out on the Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto sweepstakes, the Blue Jays could become desperate for Cody Bellinger to address the lack of offensive additions this offseason.
The Cody Bellinger Experience
OF/1B Cody Bellinger began his career in Los Angeles and won Rookie of the Year in 2017 with the Dodgers. Bellinger went along to win the 2019 NL MVP Award with LAD. However, 2021 and 2022 resulted in substantial problems for the slugger. Bellinger had sub-.700 OPS seasons for both 2021 and 2022, a contrast to his four prior years of OPS tallies of .780+. However, 2023 was a complete resurgence for the 28-year-old. Bellinger put up an .881 OPS, 26 HRs, a 134 wRC+, and a 4.1 WAR. He also put up a combined 2 DRS defensively at 1B and in the outfield.
Where Will Cody Bellinger Play?
This is where things get iffy. With the addition of Justin Turner to likely fill the hole at DH, it’s difficult to find a consistent position for Cody Bellinger to play. However, the most likely option would be moving Kevin Kiermaier to the bench. Both Daulton Varsho and George Springer are proven sluggers throughout their careers, while Kiermaier has been more of a glove-first outfielder. After the disappointing offensive showing in 2023, the Blue Jays are definitely valuing Cody Bellinger’s offence more than Kevin Kiermaier’s defensive abilities in centre field.
Another possible option is putting Justin Turner at 3B, freeing up the DH spot for Cody Bellinger. However, with Turner continuing to age and tallying a -3 DRS, this option could become less likely for 2024. Justin Turner has had plenty of experience at the hot corner throughout his career, but with Turner entering his age-39 season, his agility is in question at 3B. Turner will likely fill the DH spot in 2024 with limited stints in the infield.
Jeff Passan is one of the most respected MLB Insiders in the baseball industry and the majority of the ideas that he says have some basis to them. While Cody Bellinger signing with the Blue Jays could move Kevin Kiermaier to the bench, it may be necessary in order to take Toronto’s offence to the (no pun intended) next level. As Spring Training draws near, the Blue Jays desperation may kick in very soon.