The Chicago Cubs have disappointed so far this season, sitting below .500, and well away from contending. New reports from the Athletic suggest that unless something changes with their fortune, the Cubs could trade Cody Bellinger.

This past offseason, Bollinger signed a three-year contract worth $80 million with the Cubs. He originally wanted a much larger deal, but didn’t have the market he hoped for in free agency. Bellinger’s contract also includes a player option after this season.

Bellinger isn’t in the plans for the Cubs, so moving him at the deadline could net a good return. He isn’t the MVP he was years ago but is still a solid player that contenders will find useful.

What Return Can Bellinger Get?

Bellinger can play several different positions and provides stellar defense. He also has a middle-of-the-order bat, so he’ll have a lot of interest from contenders. This year will have several top names available at the deadline, and Bellinger could be near the top.

Teams seeking Bellinger will likely have to part with a high-level prospect. It’s unlikely that any team will give a truly elite prospect for Bellinger, but a strong prospect or two would be likely. Look for teams to give multiple top ten prospects, including a top-five prospect.

Several teams could make sense to make this trade. The New York Yankees were connected to Bellinger in the offseason, and desperately need another bat. This addition would make all the sense in the world. The Philadelphia Phillies are potentially in the market for an outfield upgrade and could look this way. The Atlanta Braves superstar Ronald Acuna Jr got injured early this year, and will remain out for the season. Bellinger could provide an immediate impact to replace him.

It’s undetermined if the Cubs will part ways with him, or who would be interested. But certainly, a strong return would be in coming back if the Chicago Cubs trade Cody Bellinger.