Chicago Cubs Trade Cody Bellinger to Yankees in Cost-Saving Move, Bolstering New York’s Roster – Sports Al Dente
The Chicago Cubs have sent former MVP Cody Bellinger to the New York Yankees in a salary-saving transaction. The Yankees will assume most of Bellinger’s 2025 salary and part of his 2026 obligation or potential buyout.
Meanwhile, the Cubs are only responsible for $5 million of his contract, making the trade a financially smart decision for Chicago. For the Yankees, who recently failed to secure Juan Soto in free agency, Bellinger offers a chance to recoup some of that lost offensive output. This deal, along with the additions of Max Fried and Devin Williams, further enhances their lineup.
Cody Bellinger, the 2019 MVP, has experienced a career filled with highs and lows. After a disappointing 2021 campaign with a -1.7 WAR caused by injuries and declining performance, he signed a one-year deal with the Cubs for 2023. He bounced back impressively in 130 games, posting a .307/.356/.525 slash line, with 26 homers, 97 RBIs, 20 steals, and a 4.4 WAR. Exercising his $27.5 million player option for 2024, Bellinger looks to continue his resurgence after inconsistent years with the Dodgers.
Bellinger’s defensive versatility adds further value to the Yankees. Capable of playing both first base and the outfield, he provides the team with much-needed flexibility. With first base and center field being areas of concern, particularly with Ben Rice likely slotted at first, Bellinger’s presence could stabilize the Yankees’ roster. His ability to take over center field also gives the team the option to rearrange other players to fill gaps effectively.
For the Cubs, this move opens up financial flexibility following their recent acquisition of Kyle Tucker. The outfield and designated hitter roles are now anchored by Ian Happ, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Tucker, and Seiya Suzuki. Additionally, there are rumors of a trade involving second baseman Nico Hoerner, which could further alter Chicago’s roster. With the savings from the Bellinger deal, the Cubs are likely to focus on bolstering their pitching staff.
In the end, the trade appears mutually beneficial, with both teams gaining strategic advantages. The Yankees add a versatile offensive weapon in Bellinger, while the Cubs free up financial resources for further moves. Both franchises are expected to remain active as they prepare their rosters for the coming season.