Why Cody Bellinger is a Perfect Fit for The Angels
Jan 4, 2024 - Written by Bryan Whitfield
Photo Credit: Matt Dirksen/Cubs
The Los Angeles Angels are in desperate need of a middle of the order bat after losing Shohei Ohtani to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Who better of a replacement than a superstar hitter who would also provide excellent defense at a premium position. Cody Bellinger is coming off an incredible season in which he was named the NL Comeback Player of the Year with the Chicago Cubs. Bellinger, will be entering his age 28 season in 2024, the slugger could soon find himself wearing a halo and transforming the Angels into a formidable force in the American League West. While there may be some doubt surrounding Bellinger and the contract he may get, there are a number of reasons why the Angels should take a chance on him.
Defensive Versatility
Bellinger is a Gold Glove Center-Fielder and has consistently displayed his ability to cover ground in the outfield while also being able to provide above average defense at first base. With the Angels recent lackluster performances on the defensive side of things, Bellinger's addition could greatly improve their overall team defense and would likely allow Mike Trout to finally shift to a corner OF spot.
Lefty Power Bat
Despite the obvious dip in production in 2021 & 2022, Bellinger has proven himself to be a legitimate power threat. In 2019, he belted an impressive 47 home runs and held a .629 slugging percentage, capturing the National League MVP award. Last season, Bellinger roped 26 home runs, with a .525 slugging percentage and a .307 average. The Angels have an obvious gap in the lineup and no clear player to fill Ohtani’s shoes. The Angels are seeking a left-handed bat in a right-handed dominant lineup. Cody Bellinger is a left-handed power bat who would give the Angels a clear Ohtani replacement, he gives the Angels someone who could slot in behind Mike Trout in the batting order.
In the Prime of his Career
At 28 years old, Bellinger still has the majority of his prime ahead of him. The Angels are looking to build a competitive team in 2024 under new manager, Ron Washington. Bellinger would be a good piece to add to the superstar duo of Trout and Rendon. This also would send a clear message across the league that the Angels are serious about competing in 2024. Bellinger's age and potential to continue to improve makes him an enticing piece to add to their long-term plans.
A Return to So-Cal
Let's not forget that Bellinger has played in So-Cal before. Returning to Southern California would likely be an enticing destination for the free agent to end up. He’d be in the presence of Trout, who has established himself as one of the game's best and would be surrounded amongst a young Angels core. This could have a positive impact on the rest of the team as adding a veteran who happens to be a superstar, could help be a mentor to the young Angels core.
The Bottom Line
While it is true that Bellinger has struggled in recent years, acquiring him could have a huge impact on getting the Angels back into the conversation for the playoffs. His defensive versatility, lefty power bat, young age, geographic connection, as well as the ability to continue to improve could all suggest that he could be the missing piece for the Angels who are hungry to return to the playoffs.
The Angels should seriously consider taking a chance on Cody Bellinger. If he can build off last season and regain his MVP form, he would be a formidable force in a trio that would include Mike Trout and Anthony Rendon. The Angels would once again become a powerful force in the American League West. While Bellinger is represented by Scott Boras the time to make this move is now. It’s said Bellinger is seeking a $200M deal but could get anywhere between $150-200M. Boras is known to take his time with his clients and if the Angels were smart, they need to meet the asking price and get this deal done.
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