The Chicago Cubs have traded former MVP Cody Bellinger to the New York Yankees in a cost-saving move, with the Yankees covering most of his salary for the 2025 season and part of his 2026 or a potential buyout. The Cubs will only pay $5 million of Bellinger’s contract, making this deal financially advantageous for them. The Yankees, who recently missed out on Juan Soto in free agency, see Bellinger as a replacement for some of that lost production. They have also added Max Fried and Devin Williams to their roster, further strengthening their lineup.
Cody Bellinger, who won the 2019 MVP award, has had a rollercoaster career. After struggling in 2021, with a -1.7 WAR, due to injuries and a decline in performance, he signed a one-year deal with the Cubs for the 2023 season. In 130 games, Bellinger had a strong rebound, hitting .307/.356/.525 with 26 home runs, 97 RBI, 20 steals, and a 4.4 WAR. He exercised his $27.5 million player option for the 2024 season, continuing his resurgence after an inconsistent period in Los Angeles.
In addition to Bellinger’s offensive prowess, his versatility is valuable to the Yankees. He can play both first base and the outfield, providing the team with flexibility as they fill out their roster. The Yankees are still in the process of refining their lineup, with potential gaps at first base and in the outfield, especially with Ben Rice likely to play first. Bellinger could also take over center field, allowing the Yankees to use other players in alternative positions.
For the Cubs, this trade allows them to save money after their recent acquisition of superstar Kyle Tucker. The Cubs’ outfield and designated hitter positions are now filled with Ian Happ, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Tucker, and Seiya Suzuki. With a potential trade involving second baseman Nico Hoerner, the Cubs might further shake up their roster, using the financial flexibility from this trade to improve their pitching staff.
Ultimately, this deal benefits both teams, assuming they continue to pursue aggressive roster moves. The Yankees gain a player with proven offensive ability and versatility, while the Cubs save on salary and position themselves for further adjustments. Both teams are likely to continue making moves as they refine their rosters for the upcoming season.
