The Los Angeles Dodgers’ four-game series against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field gave them a second opportunity to face Cody Bellinger in as many weeks.
Bellinger was non-tendered by the Dodgers this past offseason after struggling for two consecutive seasons, and he went on to sign a one-year contract with the Cubs. The change of scenery has been beneficial as the 2019 National League MVP is in the midst of a bounce-back season.
Bellinger enters play Monday hitting .300/.380/.550 with five doubles, five home runs and 15 RBI in 21 games. He found success against his former team, homering once at Dodger Stadium and then two more times during the series at Wrigley Field.
Clayton Kershaw praised Bellinger for the impact he brings on and off the field, and is pleased to see him thriving with the Cubs after enjoying their time together as Dodgers teammates, via SportsNet LA:
“I love Bopper. He’s one of my favorites that I’ve gotten to play with over the years. I hope he does well. I hope he has a great career and I hope Chicago treats him well. … I love Belli and I really wanted to see him get going this year. I know he’s going to be a free agent again, so I want him to have a great year. I think we all do.
“Belli was a big part of the clubhouse and a fun guy to hang out with. Always making me laugh, so we miss him. I miss playing poker with him on the plane. … Great personality. You just want to be around him. He’s just funny, good to hang with, easy to talk to.”
Bellinger spent the first six seasons of his career with the Dodgers after being selected by the organization in the fourth round of the 2013 MLB Draft. He made his debut in 2017 and went on to win NL Rookie of the Year honors, along with numerous other accolades.
In addition to his production, Bellinger was beloved among the Dodgers clubhouse and gave back to the community through the Bellinger Family Foundation.
Cody Bellinger thought he would spend entire career with Dodgers
While Bellinger has found new life with the Cubs, he initially never envisioned playing for anyone but the Dodgers.
“Yeah, I mean, at one point, for sure,” Bellinger answered when asked if he thought he would spend his entire career with the Dodgers.
“But like I said, throughout this whole process, not that I realized, but life is not always planned. As we all know as we grow older, for me, God works in mysterious ways. I just try and be in the moment and appreciate what comes next for me.”
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