The New York Yankees have made a significant move by trading for outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs. This transaction comes shortly after the Yankees noted a gap in their roster following Juan Soto’s departure to the New York Mets.
As part of the trade, the Yankees not only acquired Bellinger but also received cash considerations from the Cubs to help manage his salary. For 2025, Bellinger is set to earn $27.5 million, with a player option worth $25 million for 2026. The financial aspects of the deal include a $5 million offset to Bellinger’s salary from the Cubs, which reflects the strategic maneuvering both teams made to ensure a beneficial transition.
Bellinger, 29, is a noteworthy player, having won the National League MVP award in 2019. His recent performance with the Cubs was promising, hitting .266 with 18 home runs and 78 RBIs this past season. After two challenging seasons prior, Bellinger’s rebound has made him an appealing addition for the Yankees, who are aiming to strengthen their lineup following a World Series loss to the Dodgers.
Bellinger’s skill set adds depth to the Yankees’ roster. Known for his defensive prowess, he can rotate between center field, where he has excelled, and first base. This versatility is especially valuable as New York evaluates potential options for first base following Anthony Rizzo’s free agency.
The Cubs, who ended the previous season with an 83-79 record, have been working to streamline their payroll, which played a part in their decision to trade Bellinger. They also managed to acquire pitcher Cody Poteet in the exchange, who had shown promise in his brief time with the Yankees.
This trade can be viewed as a strategic move for both teams. While the Yankees seek to reload for another competitive season, the Cubs appear to be focusing on financial flexibility to improve their own team dynamics.
Overall, this trade highlights the ever-evolving landscape of Major League Baseball, where teams are continually adapting to strengthen their prospects. The addition of Bellinger could potentially be a game-changer for the Yankees as they plan to bounce back from past disappointments and build a more fortified roster for the upcoming season.