Chicago Cubs Owner Tom Ricketts Plays Waiting Game with Free Agent Cody Bellinger
In the world of Major League Baseball, the offseason can be a time of uncertainty and anticipation for both players and team owners. Chicago Cubs owner Tom Ricketts finds himself in a similar situation as he waits on free agent Cody Bellinger and his agent, Scott Boras, to engage in contract negotiations.
Ricketts expressed his stance on the situation, stating, “We’re just waiting. Waiting for whenever he and his agent are going to engage. It could be any time now or it could be in a few weeks. We’ll see where it goes.”
Bellinger, who won comeback player of the year last season with Chicago, has been a key player for the team after overcoming a shoulder injury. Despite his success on the field, negotiations with Boras have yet to reach a serious stage.
When asked about his communication with Boras, Ricketts made it clear that he prefers to leave negotiations to the team’s general manager, stating, “I don’t talk to Scott. When you do that, you undermine the credibility of your GM. Inserting yourself into that negotiation, I don’t think that helps. I don’t talk to him.”
However, Boras defended his involvement in the process, highlighting the importance of ownership in recruiting players during free agency. He emphasized, “It’s the normal owner’s signature move to be involved in the efforts of recruiting players and reaching out to me so I can convey to the player the ownership of the team covets them.”
Despite the ongoing discussions, the Cubs have yet to meet Boras’ reported asking price of over $200 million for Bellinger. Ricketts remains steadfast in his approach, focusing on building a competitive team within their current financial constraints.
Reflecting on the team’s offseason moves, Ricketts expressed confidence in the additions made to the roster, stating, “We’ve added some parts that are going to be beneficial to the whole. I don’t see any reason why we wouldn’t be favored for our division this year.”
While some may question the Cubs’ approach to payroll and player acquisitions, Ricketts remains optimistic about the team’s prospects, emphasizing the importance of consistency and performance on the field.
As the waiting game continues, Ricketts remains focused on the team’s goals and the potential for success in the upcoming season. With a competitive balance tax level in mind, the Cubs aim to maintain their position as contenders in the league.
