The New York Yankees have officially completed a trade with the Chicago Cubs to acquire outfielder and first baseman Cody Bellinger. This move comes as part of the Yankees’ strategy to bolster their roster following the departure of outfielder Juan Soto, who has joined the New York Mets.
In this trade, the Yankees not only acquired Bellinger but also received financial support from the Cubs, who will cover part of his salary. The Yankees will receive $5 million from the Cubs to help offset Bellinger’s earnings, which include a salary of $27.5 million for the 2025 season and a player option of $25 million for 2026. Chicago will handle $2.5 million of Bellinger’s current salary this season.
Cody Bellinger, a standout player and 2019 National League MVP known for his offensive power, has shown a resurgence in performance after struggling in the prior three seasons. In his 2023 campaign with the Cubs, he had a respectable batting line of .266 average with 18 home runs and 78 RBIs. With a robust five-year career behind him, his overall statistics include a .259 average, 196 home runs, and 597 RBIs across 1,005 games.
The Yankees’ commitment to acquiring high-caliber talent was demonstrated further with their recent signings, including left-handed starter Max Fried and All-Star closer Devin Williams. With these strategic moves, the Yankees aim to recover from their recent World Series loss and strengthen their roster for the upcoming season.
Bellinger’s ability to play multiple positions, including center field and first base, allows the Yankees flexibility in their lineup. His proven track record and defensive skills are anticipated to significantly contribute to the team’s success as they transition into the next chapter of their competitive pursuit.
The Cubs’ decision to trade Bellinger aligns with their goal of reshaping their payroll and enhancing their roster after finishing the previous season with a record of 83-79. The deal to send right-hander Cody Poteet to Chicago included a considerable negotiation period to determine the financial arrangements.
In addition to the Bellinger trade, the Cubs also traded catcher Matt Thaiss to the White Sox for cash considerations, indicating an active approach to refining their team ahead of the next season.
Overall, the Yankees are seeking to make a strong comeback, and acquiring a player of Bellinger’s caliber could be a significant step towards achieving their championship aspirations. The blend of youth and experience throughout their roster may create an exciting dynamic as they head into the new season.