Jon Heyman: Cubs wouldn't get much back if they traded Cody Bellinger

(670 The Score) If the Cubs choose to be sellers at the trade deadline, they shouldn’t expect to get much back for outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger, Jon Heyman of the New York Post and MLB Network told the Mully & Haugh Show on Tuesday morning.

The Phillies have interest in the 28-year-old Bellinger should the Cubs make him available, Jim Bowden of The Athletic reported recently. The trouble is Bellinger’s $27.5-million salary in 2024 and what’s left on his contract after that. He’s in the first season of a three-year, $80-millon contract. Bellinger also has the choice to opt out after each of the first two seasons of the deal.

Bellinger is hitting .266 with nine homers, 37 RBIs and a .738 OPS in 77 games this season.

“Bellinger is obviously a very good player, but that salary is pretty high though for a guy who has a .750 OPS at this point," Heyman said. "I’m not seeing anything big coming back, if that’s what the hope is.

“He’s a good, solid player. He’s versatile, but nearly $30 million, that’s a lot of money. Now, there are a couple owners who are just in it to win no matter what. And I think Philly is one of those. I wouldn’t rule it out. But I don’t think he has a big value in terms of getting prospects back.”

The Cubs haven’t publicly indicated yet whether they’ll be buyers or sellers ahead of the trade deadline on July 30, but if they continue to inhabit last place in the NL Central as they do now, the choice will be obvious. The Cubs will need to turn their attention to the future rather than prioritize a push this season.