Remember that feeling in high school when your crush didn’t text you back for, like, an eternity? Yeah, that’s kind of the vibe Cody Bellinger’s free agency is giving off. Despite a stellar 2023 season, the former MVP finds himself in baseball purgatory, stuck in a prolonged “will they, won’t they” saga with his (alleged) true love—the Chicago Cubs.

Analysts are practically placing bets on a reunion, with most predicting Bellinger donning the Cubbie Blue once more. But here’s the twist: USA Today’s Scott Boeck throws a curveball, suggesting a short-term deal instead of a long-term commitment. Buckle up, baseball fans, because this free agency saga is going to be anything but ordinary.

Cody Bellinger in Baseball Purgatory: Will a short-term deal be his ticket out?

Let’s rewind. Bellinger’s 2023 was a redemption arc worthy of Hollywood. After struggling seasons elsewhere, he rocketed back with a sizzling .307 average, 26 homers, and 20 steals in Chicago. The Cubs, clearly smitten, seem like the perfect fit. They know him; the fans adore him, and President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer practically gushes about him. So, what’s the holdup?

According to Heavy.com, Bellinger’s price tag might be the culprit. His agent, the legendary Scott Boras, is reportedly demanding a cool $200 million—a number that makes teams flinch. With Spring Training looming, the pressure’s on, and experts like MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand say the Cubs are playing it cool to avoid bidding wars.

This is where Boeck’s short-term deal prediction comes in: “Bellinger returns to Chicago on a short-term deal despite interest in moving back to Los Angeles to play for the Angels.” Could a one-year pact appease both sides?

Cody Bellinger will get to prove his 2023 wasn’t a fluke, and the Cubs can re-evaluate his value without a long-term commitment. It’s a gamble, but for a player with something to prove, it could be the springboard he needs.

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Now the question is, if a deal with the Cubs doesn’t work out (fingers positively crossed), what other options can dawn on Bellinger’s radar before Spring Training arrives?

Bellinger’s Backup Plan: Beyond the Windy City

Wrigley’s Faithful might have to wave goodbye to Cody Bellinger. But fear not, slugger seekers! Even if a Cubs deal fizzles, Bellinger’s free agency odyssey continues. Brace yourselves for some curveball destinations discussed by Bleacher Report:

• Mile High Mashing: Imagine Bellinger launching moon shots in Denver’s thin air. The Colorado Rockies might not be contenders, but they have the cash and the need for a lefty bat (plus, they love Boras’ clients—remember Kris Bryant?). The only shocker? Swapping sunshine for Coors Field’s shadows.

• Nationals’ New Hope: Remember Jayson Werth igniting D.C. before Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper arrived? The Washington Nationals, despite their rebuild, could pull a similar power move with Bellinger. He’d fill outfield holes and inject life into a young squad, just in time for their future stars to emerge.

• Motor City Muscle: The Detroit Tigers boast young talent at first and right, but their offense sputtered last season. Bellinger’s bat could be the missing spark. Plus, with payroll flexibility, Detroit could afford his pop, even if they have to move him around the outfield.

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So, Cubs fans don’t despair. While Cody Bellinger in blue pinstripes remains the dream, these hidden gems could offer him a surprising new chapter. And hey, a plot twist is what makes free agency fun, right?