The Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees are actively working toward a trade involving veteran outfielder and first baseman Cody Bellinger, a move that could address key needs for both teams.
How Cody Bellinger could fill Yankees’ first base void in potential trade
This shift in focus comes after the Yankees failed to land the offseason’s marquee player, Juan Soto, who ultimately signed with the New York Mets. Despite offering $760 million—just $5 million short of the Mets’ bid—the Yankees pivoted to explore other high-impact additions, with Bellinger emerging as a prime target.
Bellinger became available on the trade market after opting not to exercise his opt-out clause for 2025, keeping him under contract at $27.5 million for the season. The 2026 season includes a $25 million player option, bringing his potential remaining contract value to $52.5 million. This financial structure has been a point of contention in trade discussions. The Cubs are reluctant to cover any portion of Bellinger’s salary, while the Yankees are hesitant to take on the entire amount.
Despite the financial hurdles, Jon Heyman of The New York Post reported that both sides have made “a bit of progress” in their negotiations as of Wednesday. The Yankees’ willingness to absorb Bellinger’s contract may ultimately hinge on their broader financial strategy. Having already committed $218 million to ace left-hander Max Fried, the Yankees remain $50 million below their 2024 luxury tax payroll threshold of $308 million. This leaves them room to make additional moves, including acquiring Bellinger.
For the Yankees, Bellinger represents more than just financial logistics. He fills a glaring need at first base while adding significant power to their lineup. A left-handed pull hitter, Bellinger’s swing is tailor-made for Yankee Stadium’s short right-field porch, where he could realistically eclipse the 30-home-run mark for the first time since his MVP-winning 2019 season.
What do Yankees fans think?
The Yankees are inching closer to a deal for Cody Bellinger, sparking a wave of reactions from fans eager to see the former MVP bring his talents to the Bronx. With rumors intensifying about the Yankees’ offseason plans, Bellinger’s name has emerged as a central figure, one that could help reshape the team’s lineup for 2025.
Bellinger has always been a polarizing talent, and the reactions to his potential arrival in New York reflect that. Supporters point to his versatility—he’s a left-handed bat who can cover first base and the outfield—making him a strategic fit for the Yankees’ needs. His resurgence with the Chicago Cubs in 2023, following injury struggles, has shown he still has plenty to offer at the plate.
“Bellinger has always been up and down,” one fan remarked on social media. “Not sure it’s fair to assume that’s due to decline, or just the player he is.”
Others remain skeptical, questioning whether Bellinger’s inconsistency and price tag are worth the gamble. “Do NOT want Bellinger,” one user tweeted, placing him far down their wish list of potential acquisitions. Still, many fans are rallying behind the idea, particularly given the Yankees’ need for left-handed power and defensive flexibility.
Strategic fit for 2025
The Yankees’ interest in Bellinger aligns with their broader efforts to retool after a disappointing 2024 season. Following the departures of key players like Juan Soto and Gleyber Torres, Bellinger’s ability to slot into multiple positions could provide lineup flexibility that manager Aaron Boone values.
Ken Rosenthal echoed this sentiment, stating, “You get Tucker, you get Bellinger if you’re the Yankees.” The reference to Kyle Tucker, another rumored Yankees target, highlights the team’s ambitious approach to the offseason. Adding both players would dramatically reshape the roster, injecting balance and star power into the lineup.
Financial considerations
Acquiring Bellinger won’t come without its challenges. The Cubs are likely to seek a significant return, though speculation suggests they might absorb part of his salary to facilitate a deal. For the Yankees, balancing their financial commitments while addressing their lineup gaps remains a delicate task.
The move would also send a clear signal about the Yankees’ intentions. Adding Bellinger would represent a commitment to competing at the highest level and addressing long-standing roster inefficiencies.
Bellinger’s availability has drawn interest from multiple teams, but the Yankees appear to be leading the charge. Adding him to their roster would enhance their offensive firepower and provide defensive versatility, aligning with their goal of returning to World Series contention.
While obstacles remain in finalizing the trade, the Yankees’ determination to secure a big-name addition suggests they are committed to reshaping their roster after a disappointing 2023 campaign. Whether Bellinger ultimately dons the pinstripes—or the Cubs’ blue—remains to be seen, but momentum is building toward a deal that could have significant implications for both franchises.
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