Cody Bellinger is a top name left in free agency with a deal seeming complicated. His super agent Scott Boras has guided proceedings, with a waiting game ensuing amidst prolonged negotiations. But now, with Spring Training underway, tensions seem to be high as the renowned agent seemingly exchanges words with the Chicago Cubs’ billionaire owner. 

The Cubs have been the leading name in talks to sign Bellinger. Following a massive 2023 season, a reunion is now on the cards, but with roadblocks hampering talks. Amidst a somewhat peaceful and slow-paced free agency, the proceedings have now fired up. 

Cubs owner speaks on Cody Bellinger sweepstakes and Scott Boras 

In a twist of events, Chicago Cubs owner Tom Ricketts has spoken on the Cody Bellinger sweepstakes. In particular, he addressed super agent extraordinaire Scott Boras. Ricketts said that he does not talk to Boras regarding deals, as it may appear to undermine his General Manager. The renowned negotiator seemingly replied to this while speaking to The Athletic and appeared baffled by Ricketts’ words.

Ricketts said, “I don’t talk to Scott. One of his signature moves is to go talk to the owner. But I think when you do that, you undermine the credibility of your general manager. You’re kind of inserting yourself into that negotiation. I don’t think that helps.” This seemingly took aim at Boras’ methods, but the Cubs owner seemed to be talking about his own approach to free agency as well. 

In response, Boras mentioned that owners are normally involved in the recruitment of star players. In fact, many owners directly express commitment during the free agency process. He further said, “When Cody was a free agent last year, the Cubs engaged and were very aggressive in their pursuit. And their process is no different this year. So I am not clear as to what Tom is suggesting.”

Top Stories

Boston Pressures Craig Breslow to Strike Back as Blue Jays Launch Bold Alex Bregman Push, Per Insider

“Do Something” — Yankees Veteran Puts Brian Cashman on Notice as Call Grows to Chase Bo Bichette After $75M Miss

Detroit Left Fuming After Justyn-Henry Malloy Forced to Make Way for $19M Acquisition

2 Royals Star Face Trade Chopping Block After Matt Strahm Signing Restricts Kansas City

Ross Atkins to Part Ways With 4 Players as Blue Jays Chase 25-Year-Old Nationals Star: MLB Trade Rumor

This has added a bit of spice to a prolonged negotiation that has seen both sides stall. 

Stalled talks are impacting both Bellinger and the Cubs 

In Spring Training every-day matters. It helps players and teams acclimatize to the workload amidst a fast-approaching strenuous regular season. With each passing day that negotiations stall, the Cubs and Cody Bellinger lose out on precious time. Furthermore, it may take a few days or weeks before the star outfielder is fully ready to go. Although Bellinger is likely preparing for the season on his own, Spring Training and team practice are very different.

Read More: Despite Cody Bellinger’s Prolonged Free Agency, Scott Boras Maintains Hard Stance Amidst $200 Million Negotiations

It will be interesting to see how negotiations between the two sides progress and if Cubs owner Tom Ricketts will now get involved. This exchange of words between him and Scott Boras may hasten contract talks or further complicate a deal. Will Cody Bellinger sign with the Cubs, and will the team’s billionaire owner be involved in future talks? Kindly share your thoughts in the comments below.

Watch This Story: Unveiling the Top 5 Forecasted Players of 2024