The Chicago Cubs are facing a pivotal offseason as they likely miss the playoffs, with their future closely tied to Cody Bellinger's impending decision on whether to opt out of his three-year, $80 million contract. Analysts predict Bellinger, whose performance this season has been solid but not stellar with a .267 batting average and 15 home runs, may choose to test free agency, potentially leaving the Cubs with a significant gap in their lineup. Emerging talents such as Pete Crow-Armstrong and Michael Busch could replace Bellinger, making his departure less painful financially. Bellinger's age and past MVP performance may attract lucrative offers from other teams, despite his current numbers being below expectations. If he opts out, the Cubs will have to strategically invest the $52.5 million he would forfeit in order to strengthen their roster for 2025. The decision looms as a defining moment for the Cubs as they look to rebound from a disappointing season and build for the future.