Cody Bellinger

Cody Bellinger, one of Major League Baseball's most exciting young talents, has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike with his remarkable abilities both at the plate and in the field. From his debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers to his journey through ups and downs, Bellinger’s career is one marked by immense promise, resilience, and a commitment to becoming one of the game's best players.

Early Life and Background

Cody James Bellinger was born on July 13, 1995, in Scottsdale, Arizona, into a baseball family. His father, Clay Bellinger, played in the major leagues for a brief period with the New York Yankees and the Anaheim Angels, which gave Cody an early exposure to the game. Growing up, Bellinger was not just another kid who inherited his father's love for the sport; he was also an incredibly talented athlete in his own right.

Bellinger attended Hamilton High School in Chandler, Arizona, where his baseball skills became undeniable. His combination of power, speed, and defensive prowess led him to be selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the fourth round of the 2013 MLB Draft. This was just the beginning of what would be a standout career.

MLB Debut and Early Success

Cody Bellinger’s MLB debut came on April 25, 2017, when he was called up by the Los Angeles Dodgers to fill in for an injured Joc Pederson. He wasted no time making an impact. In his first game, Bellinger hit a home run, making an immediate statement that he belonged in the big leagues.

That 2017 season was nothing short of spectacular for Bellinger. He won the National League (NL) Rookie of the Year award, hitting 39 home runs, driving in 97 RBIs, and batting .267. His powerful bat, combined with his ability to play multiple positions, made him a unique asset for the Dodgers. His performance helped the Dodgers reach the World Series, although they fell short in a hard-fought series against the Houston Astros.

The Rise of Bellinger: 2019 NL MVP

Bellinger’s career reached new heights in 2019. He was named the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) after a season that saw him hit .305 with 47 home runs, 115 RBIs, and an OPS of 1.035. His incredible production at the plate was accompanied by his solid defense in the outfield, where he earned a Gold Glove Award.

That season, Bellinger proved he could do it all—hit for power, get on base, and field at an elite level. His 47 home runs were the most by any player in the National League that year, and his versatility as both an outfielder and first baseman gave the Dodgers multiple ways to utilize his talents. The 2019 MVP season cemented Bellinger as one of the league’s premier players.

Struggles and Resilience

Despite the overwhelming success of 2019, Bellinger faced challenges in the following seasons. In 2020, while the Dodgers went on to win the World Series, Bellinger’s individual performance suffered. He struggled at the plate, batting just .239 and showing a significant drop in his power numbers. However, his defensive skills and clutch hits when it mattered most helped the Dodgers win their first World Series title since 1988.

2021 also proved to be another difficult season for Bellinger. He dealt with injuries and continued to have inconsistencies at the plate. His struggles led to speculation about whether his 2019 MVP campaign was an outlier, or if he could return to his previous form. Nonetheless, Bellinger’s commitment to working through his challenges, refining his swing, and maintaining a strong defensive presence in the outfield was not overlooked.

2022-2023: A Change of Scenery

After several seasons with the Dodgers, the team made the decision to part ways with Bellinger in 2022, signing him to a one-year contract with the Chicago Cubs. This move marked a fresh start for Bellinger, who looked to regain the form that made him an MVP just a few years prior.

Bellinger’s time with the Cubs in 2023 showed flashes of his old self. Though he was still working to fully return to his peak form, his presence in the lineup was a steadying force for a Cubs team that was looking to build for the future. His power, while not at its 2019 level, showed signs of life, and he demonstrated flashes of his previous defensive prowess.

Bellinger’s Legacy and Impact

Cody Bellinger’s career is a testament to resilience and determination. Despite his struggles over the past few years, his early accomplishments—the Rookie of the Year award, MVP honors, and a World Series title—show that he is capable of being one of the most complete players in baseball. As he continues to evolve, Bellinger has proven he can be a leader in the clubhouse, a versatile defender, and a key player in any lineup.

Bellinger’s impact goes beyond just his performance on the field. He has become a beloved figure for Dodgers fans and baseball enthusiasts alike, known for his calm demeanor, humility, and love for the game. His journey is a reminder that even the brightest stars face challenges, but with hard work and perseverance, they can still shine.

Conclusion

Cody Bellinger’s career, still in its prime, has already been filled with incredible highs and tough lows. From his remarkable rookie season to his MVP performance and subsequent struggles, Bellinger has shown that he is much more than just a player with a high ceiling—he is a resilient athlete who has faced adversity head-on. As he moves forward with the Chicago Cubs, baseball fans everywhere will be watching closely to see if Bellinger can return to his MVP form and once again become one of the game’s most feared hitters.