The Los Angeles Dodgers have been dominating the baseball scene this season with an impressive record of 92 wins and only 50 losses. They have secured their spot in the playoffs and are on track to win their division. However, amidst all this success, there is one player who has not been living up to his potential – Cody Bellinger.
Bellinger, the 2019 National League MVP, has been a key player for the Dodgers in the past few seasons. He has been a consistent performer, both offensively and defensively, and has been a crucial part of the team’s success. But this season, his performance has been below par, and it has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike.
The 26-year-old outfielder has been struggling at the plate, with a batting average of .159, which is a significant drop from his career average of .273. He has also hit only 10 home runs this season, compared to his career-high of 47 in 2019. These numbers are a far cry from what we have come to expect from Bellinger, and it has left many wondering what could be the reason behind his underperformance.
One possible explanation could be the injuries that Bellinger has been dealing with this season. He suffered a hairline fracture in his left leg in April, which kept him out of the game for over two months. He also missed some games in August due to a hamstring strain. These injuries could have affected his swing and timing, leading to his struggles at the plate.
Another factor could be the pressure of living up to his MVP title. After his stellar performance in 2019, expectations were high for Bellinger, and it could have put added pressure on him to perform. The mental aspect of the game is just as crucial as the physical, and it is possible that Bellinger is struggling to cope with the pressure.
However, despite his struggles, Bellinger has not let it affect his defense. He continues to be a reliable outfielder, making spectacular catches and throwing out runners with his powerful arm. His defensive skills have not gone unnoticed, and he has been nominated for a Gold Glove award this season.
The Dodgers’ manager, Dave Roberts, has also shown confidence in Bellinger, stating that he believes in his abilities and that he will come around. And come around, he did. In a recent game against the San Diego Padres, Bellinger hit a clutch home run in the ninth inning, securing a win for the Dodgers. It was a much-needed boost for both Bellinger and the team, and it showed that he still has the potential to be a game-changer.
It is also worth mentioning that Bellinger’s struggles at the plate have not affected the team’s overall performance. The Dodgers have been winning games and securing their spot in the playoffs, thanks to the contributions of other players. This is a testament to the depth and talent of the team, and it takes the pressure off Bellinger to perform.
As the playoffs approach, the Dodgers will need all their players to be at their best, including Bellinger. But there is no doubt that he has the talent and determination to bounce back and help the team in their quest for another World Series title. And with the support of his teammates, coaches, and fans, there is no doubt that he will overcome this rough patch and come out stronger.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Dodgers have been a dominant force in baseball this season, and their success can be attributed to the collective effort of the team. While Cody Bellinger may have underperformed this season, it is important to remember that every player goes through ups and downs, and it is how they bounce back that truly matters. Let us continue to support and believe in Bellinger as he works towards regaining his MVP form and helping the Dodgers bring home another championship. Go Dodgers!
