The New York Yankees made a strategic splash this offseason by acquiring former NL MVP Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs. The blockbuster move addresses several roster concerns while keeping the team’s budget in check. In a trade driven by Chicago’s desire to offload Bellinger’s hefty contract, the Yankees capitalized, paying a relatively modest price and enhancing their lineup with a powerful left-handed bat.
Yankees’ Bellinger deal at a bargain price
The Yankees secured Bellinger and $5 million in cash from the Cubs in exchange for right-handed pitcher Cody Poteet. While Poteet, 30, showed flashes of promise with a 2.22 ERA over five appearances for the Yankees last season, he spent much of his time either on the injured list or in Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, where he posted a respectable 3.40 ERA in 13 starts.
From the Yankees’ perspective, this was a low-risk, high-reward maneuver. By agreeing to take on the bulk of Bellinger’s remaining salary — $27.5 million in 2025 plus a $25 million player option or a $5 million buyout for 2026 — New York avoided surrendering any top prospects. As MLB insider Jack Curry aptly noted, this was a “smart and necessary” move as the Yankees shape their 2025 roster.
Bellinger, 29, brings an impressive resume that includes the 2019 NL MVP Award, a Gold Glove, a Silver Slugger, and two All-Star selections. His breakout 2019 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers saw him hit .305 with 47 home runs and 115 RBIs. However, he endured a rough stretch from 2020 to 2022, struggling with injuries and inconsistency.
A fresh start with the Cubs in 2023 reignited Bellinger’s career, as he hit .307 with 26 home runs and 97 RBIs. Though his 2024 season was comparatively modest, the Yankees are betting on a resurgence as Bellinger slots into a dangerous lineup featuring reigning AL MVP Aaron Judge.
Bellinger trade a big win for Aaron Judge
Perhaps the biggest winner in the deal is Aaron Judge. The Yankees’ superstar slugger has spent considerable time in center field, a challenging position for a 6’7”, 282-pound player. With Bellinger now available to play center or left field, Judge can return to his natural spot in right field.
The move could prolong Judge’s career and improve his durability as he approaches his 33rd birthday in April. Less defensive wear and tear could also boost his offensive output, keeping him in contention to become the first player in MLB history to hit 50 home runs five times. Currently, only Babe Ruth, Mark McGwire, and Sammy Sosa have achieved four 50-homer seasons.
Bellinger’s defensive versatility gives the Yankees options. He can play center field, left field, or first base, depending on how the roster evolves through additional trades or free-agent signings. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, New York could still pursue a full-time first baseman, shifting Bellinger primarily to the outfield.
A legacy revisited
For Bellinger, wearing Yankees pinstripes is a return to family tradition. His father, Clay Bellinger, played for the Yankees from 1999 to 2001, earning two World Series rings during that legendary run. Now, the younger Bellinger hopes to carve out his own championship legacy in the Bronx.
The Yankees’ acquisition of Cody Bellinger balances immediate lineup needs and long-term roster flexibility. If Bellinger can replicate his 2023 form, he’ll be a critical asset in New York’s pursuit of another championship. Meanwhile, Judge’s return to right field positions him for continued dominance at the plate and increased durability.
By leveraging the Cubs’ need to shed payroll, the Yankees pulled off one of the offseason’s savviest deals — one that could pay dividends for years to come.
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