As Cody Bellinger collapsed to the ground during the bottom of the first inning on Tuesday night, Chicago Cubs fans likely experienced a surge of anxiety. Bellinger had just managed to beat out a ground ball to the right side of the infield for a single. However, the replay revealed a concerning moment: his awkward landing as he lunged towards the base with his left foot. Despite being examined by a trainer, Bellinger continued in the game, which underscores his crucial role in the Cubs’ lineup.
Bellinger’s recent return to the lineup, just under three weeks after suffering a fractured left middle finger on July 10, reflects his importance to the team. Despite not being at peak performance levels—his batting average and on-base plus slugging (OPS) were not quite where the Cubs had hoped for when they signed him to a three-year, $80 million contract last winter—Bellinger’s presence is vital. When he returned to play, the Cubs were eager to have him back in any capacity, especially given the team’s struggles.
Manager Craig Counsell had been cautious with updates about Bellinger’s condition. He noted that while Bellinger’s pain tolerance for swinging was progressing, his throwing ability lagged. Initially, Counsell had suggested that Bellinger might only return as a designated hitter (DH), and indeed, Bellinger was listed as the DH in his first game back against the Cincinnati Reds last Tuesday.
Despite ongoing discomfort and the absence of a rehab assignment, Bellinger rejoined the team with the hope of revitalizing the offense. He admitted that, although his swing felt good in practice, he could not fully replicate game conditions without actual game experience. Bellinger’s mindset was to dive back into action and assess his readiness as he went along, relying on the belief that his finger would hold up sufficiently.
To manage the pain while hitting, Bellinger adapted his grip and utilized a makeshift pad between his finger and the bat. This modification helped mitigate the discomfort, although he still experiences pain during some swings, occasionally necessitating timeouts to reset during at-bats.
Despite these challenges, Bellinger’s performance has been strong. Since returning, he has posted a .321 batting average, an .882 OPS, and a 139 weighted runs created plus (wRC+). He has contributed two home runs, six RBIs, and a key infield single in a 1-for-4 performance in the Cubs’ 7-3 victory over the Twins. His presence has injected energy into the Cubs’ offense, leading to five wins in eight games since his return and adding depth to the lineup.
Counsell acknowledged Bellinger’s perseverance, noting that while the injury affects some of his play, Bellinger has managed to contribute effectively despite the pain. However, the manager also pointed out that Bellinger continues to struggle with throwing, which remains a concern. The fracture still affects his ability to make throws with force, causing discomfort when he tries to exert intensity.
Before the series opener against the Twins, Counsell indicated that Bellinger would not play in the field, and he continued as the DH on Monday and Tuesday. It remains uncertain when Bellinger might return to fielding duties, though he is making progress with his throws, gradually increasing the distance and intensity.
Bellinger’s primary role earlier this season was as a center fielder, but with other players like Pete Crow-Armstrong emerging and showing strong defensive skills, Bellinger had been transitioning to more time in right field. With the Cubs’ defensive alignment becoming more stable, especially with Michael Busch improving at first base, Bellinger’s return to the field will depend on team needs and player rotation.
For now, Bellinger will likely continue as the DH, though he may spell Crow-Armstrong in center field or contribute in other positions as needed. His focus remains on helping the team secure a strong finish to the season. Bellinger is optimistic about the team’s performance and believes that maintaining good health and playing consistently will be key to their success in the final stretch of the season.
