The Los Angeles Dodgers made a surprising move on Friday, non-tendering former National League MVP Cody Bellinger, making him a free agent. This decision reflects Bellinger’s significant offensive struggles since his MVP season in 2019.

Bellinger was projected to earn around $18 million in his final year of arbitration eligibility. Instead of paying that salary, the Dodgers chose to let him walk, opening up a hole in their outfield. While the team could still attempt to re-sign him at a lower cost, Bellinger is now free to negotiate with any team. This unexpected turn of events leaves the Dodgers, coming off back-to-back 100+ win seasons, in need of a center fielder.

From MVP to Free Agent: Bellinger’s Decline

Bellinger’s defensive prowess and base running abilities remain strong, but his offensive production has plummeted. Since his stellar 2019 season, where he boasted a .305/.406/.629 slash line with 47 home runs and 115 RBIs, Bellinger has struggled mightily. His .203/.272/.376 slash line over the past three seasons highlights a dramatic drop-off in performance. His .648 OPS from 2020 to 2022 ranked 299th out of 338 qualified hitters.

Injuries and Adjustments: A Downward Spiral

Several factors contributed to Bellinger’s decline. A shoulder injury sustained during the 2020 NLCS celebration required surgery and impacted his performance in 2021. He also experimented with a revised batting stance after the COVID-shortened 2020 season, which further complicated his struggles. Despite a brief resurgence in the 2021 postseason, Bellinger couldn’t regain his MVP form, hitting just .210 with 19 home runs in 2022.

Dodgers’ Decision and Future Implications

The Dodgers’ decision to non-tender Bellinger underscores the team’s willingness to prioritize performance over past achievements. While his defense and speed are valuable assets, his offensive woes became too significant to ignore. Benching Bellinger against a right-handed pitcher in a crucial playoff game against the San Diego Padres foreshadowed this outcome.

What’s Next for Bellinger and the Dodgers?

Bellinger now enters free agency seeking a fresh start and an opportunity to prove he can rediscover his former dominance. The Dodgers, meanwhile, must find a replacement in center field. This move shakes up the NL landscape and raises questions about Bellinger’s future and the Dodgers’ plans for 2023. While a reunion with the Dodgers at a reduced salary remains possible, Bellinger will likely explore other options in free agency. This unexpected development marks a significant turning point in the career of a once-promising superstar.