Proposed trade sends Chicago Cubs star to Atlanta Braves

The Chicago Cubs are entering a crucial part of the 2024 season. Amidst all the struggles they have been through, their vision has begun to change.

At one point, the Cubs were expected to be a playoff contender. To achieve that goal, they were expected to become buyers before the MLB trade deadline. Unfortunately, those goals have faded.

In fact, it appears Chicago could end up becoming a seller. Players could be jockeying for position over the next few weeks.

If the Cubs can’t turn things around in the coming weeks, Jed Hoyer may have no choice but to start selling talented players. There are a number of players on the roster that could be of interest to other teams around the league.

One of those players is star first baseman and outfielder Cody Bellinger.

Bellinger’s name has started to circulate in MLB rumor mills. Opposing teams are starting to notice Chicago’s struggles and eye their talent as potential trade targets.

In this spirit, FanSided suggested a potential trade idea that would involve the Cubs shipping Bellinger out of town. In that proposal, he would be sent to the Atlanta Braves.

In the trade proposal, Chicago would acquire right-hander J.R. Ritchie, catcher Drake Baldwin, left-hander Dylan Dodd and outfielder Jesse Franklin V in exchange for Bellinger.

Ritchie is currently the No. 4 ranked prospect in the Braves’ system, Baldwin is the No. 11 ranked prospect, Dodd is the No. 15 ranked prospect, and finally Franklin is ranked No. 26.

As far as Atlanta goes, it would be a no-brainer. Bellinger would be a huge step forward for them this season and potentially for the future. He has two years left on his contract, but he has opt-outs for both of those seasons. Bellinger could opt out and negotiate a long-term deal with the Braves if things go well.

So far this season, Bellinger has played in 72 games, batting .267/.327/.416, with nine home runs and 34 RBIs. His production is down from last year, but he has plenty of time to turn it around.

While this trade is far from a legitimate offer on the table in real life, it would make sense for both parties involved.

If the Cubs were open to trade offers for Bellinger, Atlanta would be a potential suitor.