Cody Bellinger activated by Cubs, Jameson Taillon to start despite trade rumors

Cody Bellinger activated by Cubs, Jameson Taillon to start despite trade rumors originally appeared in NBC Sports Chicago

Chicago puppies outfielder Cody Bellinger was removed from the injured list after breaking a finger earlier this month.

Bellinger has been out of action since July 10, but will be available on the bench for the Cubs in the opener of a three-game series against the Cincinnati Reds.

There were no additional roster changes as the Cubs had an open roster spot following Sunday’s trade that sent Christopher Morel for the Tampa Bay Rays. Isaac Paredes, acquired in this trade, has not yet reported to the Cubs, although he is expected to do so by Tuesday in Cincinnati.

The Cubs will have to make another roster change at that point, but other moves could be in the works by the time the MLB trade deadline arrives on Tuesday night.

In that sense, the Cubs are allowing the pitcher Jameson Taillon to start against the Reds, although he was repeatedly mentioned as a trade candidate in the days leading up to the deadline. He still has two years left on his contract at $18 million per season, but other teams have expressed interest as he puts together a solid season for the North Siders.

He will assume possession of the ball, barring any last-minute changes, when the Cubs and Reds begin their series at 6:10 p.m. on Monday.

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