The New York Yankees enhanced their outfield by acquiring Juan Soto and Alex Verdugo, addressing their primary offseason focus. While securing one of the premier outfielders in Major League Baseball significantly strengthened the unit, the Bombers might contemplate parting ways with Verdugo if an opportunity arises to include him in another trade.
According to MLB.com‘s Will Leitch, doubts persist regarding Alex Verdugo’s suitability as the everyday left fielder for the Yankees. Leitch suggested that, with Cody Bellinger on the market, New York could be an ideal destination. In his assessment, Leitch ranked the Yankees as the second-best fit to acquire the former MVP.
Will the Yankees go for Bellinger?
The analysis suggests that presently, there might not be an immediate spot for Bellinger in the team, especially following the acquisitions of Soto and Alex Verdugo. However, doubts persist about the Yankees committing to the 2024 season with Verdugo as their everyday left fielder. Signing Bellinger could facilitate Aaron Judge‘s move from center field and potentially create an imposing, All-Star caliber outfield reminiscent of the historical Bronx standards.
This move would likely necessitate a decision regarding Verdugo’s role on the team. The overarching plans for the Yankees in 2024 appear to outweigh Verdugo’s current position, potentially opening the door for Bellinger’s inclusion. Additionally, the familial connection through Bellinger’s father, Clay, who was part of the 1999-2000 Bombers earning World Series rings, adds a sentimental link to the Bombers.
If the Yankees aim to maximize their spending, the addition of Bellinger could be considered logical. Nonetheless, allocating those funds to address pitching requirements may be a more sensible choice. While it’s possible that Bellinger might accept a more affordable contract than rumored, the likelihood of such an outcome remains low.
What do you think? leave your comment below.
I don’t think they will spend the money even if Bellinger’s ask has come down. It would be an awesome outfield and Bellinger would supply insurance for spelling Rizzo at first this year and beyond. If they sign Yamamoto, Hal definitely closes the checkbook at that point, hence no Bellinger. If they don’t get Yamamoto, then maybe they sign Bellinger and one of Imanaga, Montgomery or Snell and or trade for Cease.
Everyone of these players will be worth much more next year. Sign them all Hal, let’s go to the World Series mucho times.
The most logic that makes sense is to Go get Bellinger this way Judge can stay in Rgt.fld. so he can protect his legs.Bellinger can cover Center,and he can cover First when needed.Spart move is to try and move DJLM. for a couple Young Prospects.Now u wil have,Soto in LFT.FLD./BELLINGER in CENTER,jUDGE in RGT. FLD.Sounds like a decent Outfld. to me.
l think that the Yankees would be wise to try to make a deal for Cody he’s young ,he can play multiple positions center field , keeps Judge in right Soto in left, he can play 1st base for Rizzo in stead of LaMahue and let him stay at 3rd base , he bats left handed a plus for Yankees Stadium. l know he he is on and off as a player but so is a the other 350 MLB PLAYERS so you got to take that chance. Also l don’t trust Verdugo l don’t think he’s fits the Yankee blue print, if we could get rid of him for a player like Cody l would jump on it, l’m sure he wants to come here, his dad played here.
Cody will be a great fit, and the money you saved by not getting Yamamoto, can go even further, the Astros have Framber Valdez, as well as Kyle Tucker, probably available, stack the deck, it all comes back anyway, every home game a sellout, concessions, the hype alone, stack the deck, bring it back to the Bronx. btw I grew up in upper Manhattan, and have been in Houston TX for 20 yrs, ny ny