Chicago Cubs Trade Deadline Rumors: 3 players who will not survive the axe starring Cody Bellinger

On account of their 51-51 record, just about everyone knows that the Chicago Cubs will not be making the playoffs. As such, the team's priorities have recently shifted.

Now that they know they will not be postseason-bound, the Cubs stand to execute some shrewd moves ahead of the August 1 trade deadline.

The team must now take the opportunity to shop for some top pending free agents. A seller to be sure, let's take a look at who GM Jed Hoyer has on the trading block.

Three players on the Chicago Cubs roster that are likely to be dealt by August 1:

#3. Trey Mancini

The first of two seasons scheduled as part of Trey Mancini's two-year deal has been a sour one. In 76 games, the 31-year-old has hit .236/.299/.341 with just four home runs and 27 RBIs.

While Mancini is far from a centerpiece, he could be a strong utility component to a team like the Arizona Diamondbacks, who have their hearts firmly set on a playoff run.

#2. Marcus Stroman

Despite being one of the most electric pitchers, Stroman has not pitched in a postseason game since he was a member of the 2016 Toronto Blue Jays.

As such, the appetite for the Cubs right-hander to go to a winning team is palpable. With his two-year deal set to expire, do not be surprised if Stroman is dealt to a contender.

"Marcus Stroman says he’s open to returning to the Cubs in the offseason even if they trade him before the August deadline." - CHGO Cubs

#1. Cody Bellinger

In the midst of one of the best comeback stories of the year, Cody Bellinger is turning the heads of Chicago Cubs fans. The former Rookie of the Year winner and MVP was released by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2022 after posting an on-base percentage of just .210, the lowest of any qualified hitters.

"Cody Bellinger needs to be in a Cubs uniform for a long time." - Cubs Zone

The Chicago Cubs took a chance on the outfielder and first baseman this past offseason, inking him to a one-year deal worth $17.5 million. The decision, although risky, paid off big time.

Bellinger has slashed .317/.364/.546 with 15 home runs and 45 RBIs so far. While his contract does include a mutual option for next year, the Cubs are very likely to take advantage of the upswing and trade Bellinger while the 28-year-old is still piping hot.