Jameson Taillon claims "Cody Bellinger is the ultimate insurance policy" amid trade rumors linking Cubs teammate to Yankees, Mets

The Chicago Cubs are reportedly looking to find takers for Cody Bellinger this offseason, especially his whopping $26.66 million salary. After the outfielder won the NL Comeback Player of the Year in 2023, the Cubs signed him to a three-year, $80 million deal with player options in place.

The opt-outs were placed in case Bellinger decided to enter free agency and sign a long-term contract. However, after a dismal 2024 season where he hit .266 and only 18 home runs, the club wants to offload his salary from their payroll since he has picked up his option.

At the moment, while there is interest from the Yankees and the Mets to acquire the versatile outfielder, trade negotiations reportedly involve the Cubs needing to take on some of his salary.

Bellinger's teammate Jameson Taillon appeared on the "North Side Territory" podcast on Friday to laud the former NL MVP for his versatility to play any position in the infield. While he understands trade rumors and all, the pitcher would like to see him return.

"I can remember so many fly balls that Patrick Wisdom hit where I thought, 'Oh, off the bat, that’s gone,' and then it’s like, warning track. I remember Bellinger hitting some of those too," Taillon said (13:00 onwards). "I understand why names get thrown out there, gauging interest and stuff. My thing with Cody is that he’s such a good all-around player.

"He does a lot of things really well and plays a lot of positions, which in today’s game is so valuable. To play good defense all over the field — that’s huge. It’s crazy to talk about a former MVP like this, but he’s the ultimate insurance policy because he can play all over."

Jameson Taillon believes trading Cody Bellinger could leave Cubs in an "unfortunate situation"

Cody Bellinger provides much more than just offense. He can play all over the outfield and has experience playing first base as well. His versatility has allowed the Cubs to place him in different positions while fixing the lineup.

If he's gone, Jameson Taillon fears the worst.

"It might sound like a good idea, salary-wise, to move on or whatever," Tallion added. "But then in-season, you could end up in an unfortunate situation where you’re like, 'Man, we wish we had Cody out here, being able to cover all these positions.'"

Taillon also acknowledged that Cody Bellinger is "studious, prepared, and locked in." He's an inspiration to young lads in the locker room and has a great work ethic.