Dodgers outfielder Cody Bellinger underwent surgery Tuesday to stabilize the right shoulder that he dislocated during Game 7 of the National League Championship Series last month.
Bellinger has had a history of popping the shoulder out of its socket. He did it on a diving defensive play at first base in May of 2019, prompting his move to the outfield as his primary position. Surgery was considered following that season but Bellinger opted for a program of strengthening exercises.
He did it again during the NLCS last month, this time dislocating his shoulder when he shared a forearm bash with teammate Kiké Hernandez following Bellinger’s go-ahead home run in Game 7.
Recovery time for the surgery, which was performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, is expected to be 10 weeks, putting Bellinger on track to be ready in time for spring training. Bellinger will begin rehab in Arizona next week.
Bellinger struggled offensively during the follow-up to his 2019 MVP season. The 25-year-old hit just .239 with 12 home runs in the 60-game regular season. He hit just .212 with four home runs and 13 RBI in the Dodgers’ postseason run, but his defense was outstanding. He was a Gold Glove finalist in center field (after winning as a right fielder in 2019) but San Diego’s Trent Grisham won the honor.
Bellinger is arbitration eligible again this winter after signing a one-year, $11.5 million contract last January.
