The New York Yankees secured a significant addition to their roster by trading for outfielder and first baseman Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs. This move comes shortly after the loss of outfielder Juan Soto, who became a free agent and subsequently signed with the New York Mets.
In the trade, the Yankees not only acquired Bellinger but also received $5 million to help offset his hefty salary. Bellinger is set to make $27.5 million in 2025, with an option for $25 million in 2026. The Cubs will pay $2.5 million towards Bellinger’s salary for the current season, while the rest will be allocated either to a buyout should he choose not to exercise his player option or toward his future salary.
At 29 years old, Bellinger is a former National League MVP, recognized for his standout performance in 2019, and he has shown a remarkable return to form in 2023 with the Cubs. He finished the season with a batting average of .266, contributing 18 home runs and 78 RBIs. Despite his previous struggles over the last few seasons, Bellinger’s solid showing this year included a lucrative three-year, $80 million free agent contract with Chicago earlier in March.
Bellinger’s versatility is a promising asset for the Yankees, as he can fill multiple roles within their lineup. He is recognized as an above-average center fielder and an exceptional defensive first baseman, providing flexibility in how the Yankees can structure their team. His arrival follows the Yankees’ strategic moves to reinforce their pitching staff with the signing of left-handed starter Max Fried and the acquisition of All-Star closer Devin Williams.
The Cubs, on the other hand, were eager to offload Bellinger, seeking to relieve some financial pressure to bolster a team that finished the season with an 83-79 record. After lengthy negotiations, they settled on sending Bellinger along with the right-hander Cody Poteet to the Yankees, who had a promising performance for them this past season. Also on the same day, the Cubs traded catcher Matt Thaiss to the Chicago White Sox for cash considerations.
This trade reshapes the Yankees’ roster as they aim to contend for the World Series once again. Bellinger’s potential to replicate his past performance adds an optimistic note for fans as they look forward to the upcoming season.
Overall, this move reflects both teams’ strategies of enhancing their respective lineups and sets the stage for an exciting 2024 season in Major League Baseball. The Yankees, with their strengthened roster, are looking to rise again as contenders after a challenging previous season.