The Cubs trade Cody Bellinger to the Yankees in a major deal
Overview and context of the exchange
The Chicago Cubs made a significant move by trading outfielder Cody Bellinger to the New York Yankees in a highly anticipated deal. This trade comes after the Cubs acquired Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros, which created a logjam in their outfield. With Bellinger joining an already crowded outfield that included players like Tucker, Ian Happ, Seiya Suzuki and Pete Crow-Armstrong, a move was needed to relieve the surplus.
In contrast, the Yankees had vacancies in center and first base, positions at which Bellinger has excelled in his career. At 29 years old, Bellinger was in a position where he was in surplus after electing to continue into the second year of his contract at a significant salary of $27.5 million.
Trade details and player analysis
The trade involved the Cubs sending Bellinger to the Yankees along with monetary considerations in exchange for right-handed pitcher Cody Poteet. The Cubs also agreed to pay $5 million of Bellinger’s salary. Bellinger’s performance in 2024 saw a .266 batting average with a .325 slugging percentage and a .426 slugging percentage in 130 games, accumulating a bWAR of 2.2. While not as impressive as his 2023 season, which earned him a contract extension, Bellinger remains a valuable asset for the Yankees.
On the other hand, the Cubs acquired Poteet, a 30-year-old pitcher with considerable minor league experience but limited success at the major league level. Poteet has shown potential in the minor leagues with a 3.76 ERA in 117 games, but has yet to translate that success consistently to the majors, where he pitched in just 24 games with a 3.80 ERA.
Potential Implications and Future Prospects
The trade not only reshapes both teams’ rosters, but also has financial implications. By freeing up $22.5 million in salary, the Cubs have the opportunity to strengthen other areas of their team. How they choose to allocate these resources could significantly affect their performance in the upcoming 2025 season, especially with Kyle Tucker potentially entering free agency after just one year with the team. The pressure is on for the Cubs to make strategic moves and capitalize on the financial flexibility gained from this trade.
In conclusion, the move of Cody Bellinger from the Cubs to the Yankees marks a significant change in the strategies and rosters of both teams. While Bellinger’s departure creates opportunities for both sides, the true impact of this trade will reveal itself over the next few seasons as teams adapt to the changes and make further moves to solidify their positions in the league.
