The New York Yankees may have missed out on the offseason’s biggest free agent, Juan Soto, who signed a record-breaking deal with the Mets, but they are staying aggressive in building their roster. Having already traded for All-Star reliever Devin Williams and signed former Atlanta Braves ace Max Fried, the Yankees are working to maintain their momentum following last season’s World Series appearance.
Reports indicate the Yankees are deep in trade discussions with the Chicago Cubs regarding Cody Bellinger, a former National League MVP. According to MLB insider Hector Gomez, the Yankees are negotiating for the Cubs to cover at least $10 million of Bellinger’s current contract, which guarantees him $52 million over the next two years. This financial adjustment could be the key to finalizing the deal.
Bellinger’s pedigree is undeniable. In 2019, while with the Los Angeles Dodgers, he captured the NL MVP award after hitting 47 home runs, driving in 115 runs, and posting an impressive 1.035 OPS. His contributions were instrumental in helping the Dodgers secure the 2020 World Series title during the pandemic-shortened season. However, his performance dipped in 2021 and 2022, leading the Dodgers to let him go in free agency.
The Chicago Cubs took a chance on Bellinger, and he rewarded them by revitalizing his career. In his first season with the Cubs, he hit 26 home runs, drove in 97 runs, and earned the National League Comeback Player of the Year award. His efforts also landed him a Silver Slugger, his first since his MVP-winning season in 2019.
Despite his resurgence, the Cubs may be open to trading Bellinger, particularly after acquiring All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros earlier this week. This move provides Chicago with a surplus in their outfield, potentially paving the way for Bellinger’s departure.
For the Yankees, bringing in Bellinger could significantly bolster their lineup. His ability to deliver power at the plate, coupled with his postseason experience, makes him a valuable asset. With the team already focused on enhancing its roster after falling short of landing Soto, this trade would demonstrate their continued commitment to staying competitive in the American League.
If the financial details align, Bellinger’s arrival would mark another high-profile addition to a Yankees team intent on making another deep postseason run. This potential move underscores their strategy of applying pressure to the AL’s top contenders through bold offseason acquisitions.
