Cody Bellinger: From Dodger Rookie to Cubs Star
Cody James Bellinger, born on July 13, 1995, in Scottsdale, Arizona, is an American professional baseball outfielder and first baseman. Bellinger’s journey to the Major Leagues began when he was selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the fourth round of the 2013 MLB Draft.1
His talent and potential were evident early on, and after several years of development in the minor leagues, Bellinger made his highly anticipated MLB debut with the Dodgers in 2017.
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Rise to Stardom with the Los Angeles Dodgers
- Bellinger’s rookie season was nothing short of spectacular. He quickly established himself as one of the league’s most promising young talents.
- In 2017, Bellinger showcased his power-hitting abilities by setting the National League rookie record for home runs with 39, earning him the NL Rookie of the Year award.
- His performance helped lead the Dodgers to the World Series, where they ultimately fell short to the Houston Astros.
- Building on his impressive debut, Bellinger continued to excel with the Dodgers. In 2019, he had a career-best season, hitting .305 with 47 home runs and 115 RBIs.
- His outstanding performance earned him the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, a testament to his all-around abilities both offensively and defensively.
Challenges and a Change of Scenery
Despite his early success, Bellinger faced challenges in the subsequent seasons. Injuries and inconsistent performance affected his playing time and productivity. In 2020, he contributed to the Dodgers’ World Series victory, solidifying his place in the franchise’s storied history. However, the following seasons were marred by struggles at the plate, leading to questions about his long-term role with the team.
In a significant move, Bellinger signed with the Chicago Cubs in the 2022 offseason, marking a new chapter in his career. The Cubs saw in Bellinger a player capable of rejuvenating their lineup and providing veteran leadership.
Transition to the Chicago Cubs
With the Chicago Cubs, Bellinger aims to rediscover the form that made him a standout player with the Dodgers. His versatile defensive skills, coupled with his potential for offensive power, make him a valuable addition to the Cubs’ roster.2
The change of scenery offers Bellinger an opportunity to reset and reestablish himself as one of MLB’s premier players.
Also Read:Â Jennifer Bellinger (Cody Bellinger Mom) Is A big Fan Of Baseball
Professional Career of Cody Bellinger
Cody Bellinger’s professional baseball career began when the Los Angeles Dodgers selected him in the fourth round, 124th overall, of the 2013 MLB Draft. At the time, Bellinger had committed to playing college baseball for the Oregon Ducks.
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However, recognizing the opportunity presented by the Dodgers, Bellinger chose to forego his commitment to Oregon and signed with the Dodgers for a signing bonus of $700,000. This bonus was notably approximately $300,000 more than the recommended amount for a fourth-round draft pick, reflecting the Dodgers’ belief in his potential.
Minor League Development
Bellinger’s journey through the minor leagues showcased his growing talent and development as a player. He spent his initial professional years honing his skills with various minor league affiliates of the Dodgers.3
His breakout season came in 2015 with the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, where he hit .264 with 30 home runs and 103 RBIs. This performance earned him recognition as one of the top prospects in the Dodgers’ organization and set the stage for his rise to the major leagues.
Major League Debut and Rookie Success
Bellinger made his Major League Baseball debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers on April 25, 2017, against the San Francisco Giants. He quickly made an impact, hitting his first MLB home run just a few days later on April 29, 2017, against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Bellinger’s rookie season was remarkable, as he set the National League rookie record for home runs with 39 and earned the NL Rookie of the Year award. His power-hitting ability and defensive versatility made him an invaluable asset to the Dodgers.
Continued Excellence and MVP Season
Building on his successful rookie campaign, Bellinger continued to excel in the following seasons. In 2019, he had a career-best year, batting .305 with 47 home runs and 115 RBIs.
His outstanding performance earned him the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, solidifying his status as one of the premier players in the league. Bellinger’s all-around play, including his defensive skills, earned him both a Gold Glove and a Silver Slugger award in the same year.
Cody Bellinger’s Family Background
Cody James Bellinger was born on July 13, 1995, in Scottsdale, Arizona, into a family deeply rooted in baseball. His father, Clay Bellinger, played a significant role in shaping Cody’s passion and skills for the sport. Clay Bellinger had a notable career as an infielder and outfielder, playing for the New York Yankees from 1999 to 2001.
During his tenure with the Yankees, Clay contributed to the team’s success in winning back-to-back World Series championships in 1999 and 2000. This championship experience and professional exposure provided Cody with a unique insight into the world of Major League Baseball from an early age.
Influence and Support from His Mother
Cody also benefited immensely from the support and encouragement of his mother, Jennifer Bellinger. Jennifer played an essential role in his athletic upbringing, ensuring he had the support needed to pursue his baseball dreams.
#Dodgers, Cody Bellinger avoided arbitration before the lockouthttps://t.co/7HTTJX0rV9 pic.twitter.com/3xXJeIpoyL
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) December 24, 2021
In addition to her role as a mother and supporter, Jennifer works in the real estate industry as an agent for Sotheby’s International Realty. Her career has been a source of stability and support for the family, complementing the athletic focus driven by Clay’s baseball background.
Family’s Impact on Cody’s Career
Growing up in a baseball-oriented family, Cody Bellinger was immersed in the sport from a young age. The combination of his father’s professional experience and his mother’s unwavering support created an environment conducive to developing his baseball talents.
Clay’s insights into professional baseball provided Cody with a practical understanding of the sport’s demands, while Jennifer’s supportive presence ensured he remained grounded and focused on his goals.
Legacy and Future
The Bellinger family’s legacy in baseball is a testament to their dedication and passion for the sport. Cody’s achievements in MLB, including his Rookie of the Year award, MVP title, and World Series championship, are a continuation of the legacy his father, Clay, began with his contributions to the Yankees.
As Cody continues his career with the Chicago Cubs, the support and influence of his family remain a crucial part of his ongoing success and development as a professional athlete.
Also Read:Â Ashli Bellinger (Cody Bellinger Sister) Is A Volleyball Player Turned Therapist
Cody Bellinger’s Net Worth and Career Earnings
As of 2024, Cody Bellinger’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million, reflecting his impressive baseball career, increased salary, endorsement deals, and smart investments outside of the field. Bellinger’s financial journey has seen steady growth over the years, with his earnings and net worth reaching new heights.
Contract Details and Salary
Bellinger’s financial trajectory has been significantly influenced by his contracts with Major League Baseball teams. In 2024, he is set to earn $27,500,000 from the MLB season, following his signing with the Chicago Cubs on February 25, 2024.
This three-year, $80 million contract guarantees him an annual average salary of $26,666,667. Additionally, the contract includes two opt-out options, providing flexibility for Bellinger in the future.
Previous Contracts and Signing Bonus
Bellinger’s financial journey began with his initial contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, signed on June 19, 2013, which included a signing bonus of $700,000.
Over the years, he signed multiple contracts with the Dodgers, each contributing to his growing wealth. Notably, his arbitration-avoiding contract in 2021 was worth $16.1 million, reflecting his value to the team at the time.
Financial Growth and Investments
Bellinger’s net worth has seen consistent growth over the years, reflecting his increasing salary, endorsement deals, and smart investment decisions outside of baseball. His ability to leverage his on-field success into financial opportunities has contributed to his overall wealth.
With Bellinger’s career trajectory and financial acumen, his net worth is expected to continue growing in the coming years. As he navigates his career with the Chicago Cubs and explores opportunities both within and outside of baseball, his financial standing is likely to remain strong.
Cody Bellinger: A Private Life Amidst Professional Success
Cody Bellinger, known for his prowess on the baseball field, maintains a relatively private personal life away from the spotlight. While it’s acknowledged that he is romantically involved with model Chase Carter, specific details about his personal life remain discreet.
Privacy Amidst Public Attention
Despite his status as a prominent figure in baseball, Bellinger chooses to keep his personal affairs private, preferring to focus on his career and relationships outside of the public eye. This discretion allows him to maintain a sense of normalcy and balance amidst the demands of professional sports and public attention.
Celebrity News and Entertainment Insights
For fans eager to stay updated on Cody Bellinger’s life and career, platforms like Sarkari Result provide a gateway to the latest celebrity news and insightful entertainment reviews. By staying informed, fans can delve deeper into the vibrant world of entertainment and follow the journeys of their favorite stars, including Bellinger.