Yankees in parleys for Cardinals’ RHP, OF after Cubs unwilling to trade Bellinger

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The trade deadline is looming, and with only a day and a few hours left until 6 PM Eastern Time on Tuesday, the New York Yankees are yet to make a move. Despite reports suggesting the Yankees’ interest in acquiring new players, the situation surrounding Cody Bellinger does not bode well for them, as the Chicago Cubs have decided not to trade the outfielder. On the other hand, the Yanks have turned their attention to the St. Louis Cardinals, expressing interest in two of their players.

Cubs confirm Bellinger will not be traded by the Yankees

According to a report by Jesse Rogers from ESPN, Cody Bellinger, who signed a one-year, $17 million contract with Chicago last offseason, has experienced a resurgence this year and will remain part of the Cubs roster. The 28-year-old outfielder has been impressive with a batting average of .315, an on-base percentage of .368, and a slugging percentage of .540 for the current season. His performance has been even more outstanding since the All-Star break, boasting an impressive 1.140 OPS. As a result, scouts from other teams have been closely monitoring the Cubs, expecting significant trades before the approaching deadline.

However, due to the Cubs’ improved performance on the field, the team has changed its off-field strategy. Sources familiar with the situation reveal that Cody Bellinger will not be traded, contrary to previous speculations. Instead, the Cubs are now focusing on strengthening their relief pitching to increase their competitiveness in the challenging NL Central race. They currently trail the first-place Milwaukee by 3½ games and are also 3½ games behind the final NL wild-card spot.

Bellinger’s stellar performance this year has been pivotal to the Cubs’ success, excelling in both center field and first base. Despite a recent 3-0 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals that ended their eight-game winning streak, the Cubs remain determined to fortify their roster and stay in the playoff race. While scouts from other teams were anticipating player subtractions before the trade deadline, it appears that the Cubs’ priority now lies in reinforcing their bullpen.

The Yankees rumored to be eyeing a Cardinals duo to bolster their roster

Currently, the Yankees have shifted their focus toward the St. Louis Cardinals and have shown interest in acquiring two of their players. According to Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the Yankees are eyeing Cardinals relief pitcher Jordan Hicks and outfielder Dylan Carlson. Discussions have taken place between the two teams regarding the potential availability of these players.

The Cardinals find themselves in last place in the National League Central with a record of 46-60, making them clear sellers as the deadline approaches. However, the Cardinals have ruled out trading star third baseman Nolan Arenado, to use the deadline to revamp their pitching staff and position themselves for a swift return to contention.

The Yankees, on the other hand, are also in a challenging position, sitting in last place in the American League East despite their 55-49 record, which puts them just 3.5 games back from a wild-card spot. Acquiring Hicks and Carlson from the Cardinals could help bolster their roster and provide much-needed depth, especially in the outfield.

Jordan Hicks, known for his hard-throwing style, has been steady but not exceptional this season, maintaining a 3.67 ERA, 1.51 WHIP, and 59 strikeouts in 41.2 innings. While he may not be a headline-grabbing acquisition, he could serve as a situational option near the end of the Yankees’ bullpen.

Dylan Carlson, with a slash line of .230/.328/.345, has contributed five home runs and 24 RBI in 68 games this year. His addition could offer valuable outfield depth and serve as insurance against potential injuries.

As the clock ticks down to the trade deadline, the Yankees will need to act swiftly if they are to secure the players they desire from the Cardinals. Both teams are hoping to make strategic moves that will position them well for future success, whether it’s the Cubs seeking to strengthen their relief pitching or the Yankees aiming to reinforce their roster for a playoff push.

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