Cody Bellinger’s baseball career, from his early days with the Dodgers to his current stint with the Cubs, is filled with accolades and impressive statistics. This article delves into his journey, highlighting key moments and achievements.
Bellinger signed a three-year contract with the Cubs in 2024, marking his second season with the team. His professional career began with the Dodgers in 2013, where he spent a decade before joining the Cubs in 2023.
In his seven Major League seasons, Bellinger boasts a .258 batting average, 163 doubles, 20 triples, 178 home runs, and 519 RBIs. His impressive performance earned him the NL Player of the Month award in July 2023, leading the league in hits, average, and total bases.
Bellinger’s early career was marked by significant milestones. He hit 111 home runs in his first three seasons, a Dodgers record and the fourth-most in MLB history. He also reached 100 career home runs in a record 401 games.
His exceptional performance in 2019 earned him the National League MVP award, making him the 12th Dodger to receive this honor. He further solidified his status as a top player by winning the Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards in the same season.
Bellinger’s 2023 season with the Cubs was statistically impressive. He achieved a career-high .307 batting average and contributed significantly to the team with 29 doubles, 26 home runs, and 97 RBIs. His performance earned him his second NL Player of the Month award in July.
He became the seventh Cub to achieve a 20-20 season (20 home runs and 20 stolen bases) and showcased his versatility by playing multiple positions. His 97 RBIs were the most by a Cub since 2018.
Bellinger’s consistent power hitting was evident in his five instances of homering in consecutive games. He also had a remarkable 13-game hitting streak in June and July, further demonstrating his offensive prowess. His contributions were crucial to the Cubs’ success.
In 2022, while still with the Dodgers, Bellinger played in 144 games, hitting 19 home runs and driving in 68 runs. He earned NL Player of the Week honors in April and continued to be a valuable asset to the team.
His previous seasons were also marked by significant contributions. In 2021, he played in 95 games, hitting 10 home runs and driving in 36 runs. He showcased his clutch performance with a three-run homer in the NLCS.
In the shortened 2020 season, Bellinger played in 56 games, hitting 12 home runs and contributing to the Dodgers’ World Series victory. He hit a crucial go-ahead home run in Game 7 of the NLCS against the Braves.
In 2019, Bellinger had a breakout season, earning MVP honors and leading the league in several offensive categories. He also won a Gold Glove for his defensive excellence in right field.
In 2018, he played in all 162 games, demonstrating his durability and contributing 25 home runs and 76 RBIs. He was named the NLCS MVP for his game-winning hits in Games 4 and 7.
His rookie season in 2017 was nothing short of spectacular. He won the Rookie of the Year award unanimously, hitting a record-breaking 39 home runs. He was also selected to the All-Star team.
Bellinger’s journey through the minor leagues was equally impressive, consistently performing well and earning accolades at each level. He was drafted by the Dodgers in 2013 and quickly rose through the ranks.
From his rookie season to his current role with the Cubs, Cody Bellinger has proven himself to be a formidable force in baseball. His career is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication to the sport. His future in the MLB remains bright.
