The Atlanta Braves have secured the future of most of their key offensive assets, leaving little room for uncertainty. However, one question mark lingers—a potentially costly decision involving Cody Bellinger.

Here are three critical reasons the Braves should think twice before pursuing him.

Price Tag vs. Performance:

The rumor mill suggests that super-agent Scott Boras will attach a substantial price tag to Cody Bellinger, touting him as a five-tool player with youth on his side. Boras also attributes Bellinger’s lackluster 2021 performance to a shoulder injury, which may have hindered his abilities.

While the injury may have played a role, it’s essential to note that Bellinger struggled for three consecutive seasons leading up to 2023. His initial success in 2017, winning Rookie of the Year and boasting a .933 OPS with 39 home runs, seemed promising. However, his subsequent years raised concerns. In 2018, his slugging percentage dropped to .470 with 25 homers, despite playing 30 more games.

The pinnacle was reached in 2019 when Bellinger secured the MVP title with a .305 batting average, a 1.035 OPS, and 47 home runs. But the following three years from 2020 to 2022 were alarming. Bellinger’s slash line during this period was .203/.272/.376, resulting in an OPS+ of 76. His performance declined significantly.

Inconsistent Track Record:

Bellinger’s fluctuating performance over the years raises red flags for any long-term, high-value commitment. While his 2023 season with the Cubs showcased a remarkable resurgence, hitting .318 with a .912 OPS, it is crucial to consider the three previous years of struggle.

Signing Bellinger based solely on one stellar season could be risky, as it may not guarantee sustained success. Consistency over several seasons is a more reliable indicator of a player’s true potential.

Mookie Betts Comparison:

If Cody Bellinger finishes the season with an OPS exceeding .900, Scott Boras is likely to draw parallels with Mookie Betts, who entered free agency with a similar achievement. Boras will undoubtedly use this comparison to leverage a lucrative contract for Bellinger.

However, the Braves must exercise caution when equating the two players. While Mookie Betts secured a 12-year, $365 million deal, his track record of consistent excellence justified the investment. Bellinger’s erratic performance may not warrant a similar commitment.

In conclusion, the Atlanta Braves should carefully weigh the cost and performance history of Cody Bellinger before making any substantial offseason moves. While his recent resurgence is noteworthy, it may not be sufficient to justify a significant, long-term financial commitment, especially when considering the potential risks involved.