The Cody Bellinger trade to the New York Yankees marks a significant offseason move for both the Yankees and the Chicago Cubs, with implications for their respective 2025 rosters. Here’s a breakdown of the trade and its potential impact:
Trade Details
– To Yankees:
– Cody Bellinger (OF/1B)
– $5 million cash
– To Cubs:
– Cody Poteet (RHP)
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Yankees’ Perspective
– Why It Makes Sense:
– Star Power and Versatility: Bellinger brings defensive flexibility, able to play center field and first base, while providing much-needed left-handed power to balance the Yankees’ lineup.
– Filling a Void: After losing Juan Soto to the Mets, the Yankees were desperate for a star outfielder. Bellinger, despite a slight dip in 2024, remains a high-upside option.
– Contract Terms: The Cubs covering $5 million of Bellinger’s salary reduces the Yankees’ financial burden, making this a manageable risk.
– Concerns:
– Inconsistency: Bellinger’s career has been marked by extreme highs (2019 NL MVP) and lows (2021 struggles). The Yankees are betting on his ability to regain his All-Star form.
– High Expectations: Playing in New York comes with immense pressure, and Bellinger will need to deliver in a demanding market.
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Cubs’ Perspective
– Why It Makes Sense:
– Clearing Space: With the acquisition of Kyle Tucker, the Cubs no longer needed Bellinger in the outfield, making this a logical move to free up payroll.
– Bullpen Help: Poteet, though not a marquee name, has shown promise when healthy. His versatility as a swingman could provide valuable depth for a Cubs team aiming to contend in 2025.
– Financial Flexibility: By offloading part of Bellinger’s salary, the Cubs can redirect resources to other areas of need.
– Concerns:
– Limited Return: While Poteet has potential, he’s not a high-impact player, and the Cubs didn’t receive any top-tier prospects or additional draft capital in the deal.
Bellinger’s Role in New York
Bellinger will likely slot into the Yankees’ outfield, potentially taking over in center field while offering coverage at first base. His left-handed bat complements a lineup that struggled with balance in 2024. If he can replicate his 2023 form, he could be a difference-maker for a team with championship aspirations.
Poteet’s Role in Chicago
For the Cubs, Poteet adds depth to a bullpen that could use reinforcements. While he’s not expected to be a star, his ability to start or relieve gives Chicago flexibility, particularly as they look to manage innings for their younger starters.
Final Take
This trade reflects the Yankees’ urgency to remain competitive in the AL East and the Cubs’ pragmatic approach to reshaping their roster.
While the Yankees assume some risk with Bellinger, the move could pay dividends if he regains his All-Star form.
For the Cubs, the trade opens up opportunities for their younger players while adding a versatile arm to their pitching staff.