In a major move to bolster their roster ahead of the 2025 season, the New York Yankees have announced the acquisition of two-time All-Star and former National League MVP Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs. The trade includes cash considerations, with the Yankees sending right-handed pitcher Cody Poteet to the Cubs in return.
Bellinger, 28, is widely regarded as one of the most talented and versatile players in Major League Baseball. A dynamic performer with the ability to play both the outfield and first base, Bellinger brings a potent bat to the Yankees lineup. Over the course of his career, he has earned two All-Star selections (2017 and 2019) and won the National League MVP award in 2019, when he hit 47 home runs and drove in 115 RBIs for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
After a brief dip in performance, Bellinger has rebounded in recent seasons with the Cubs, showcasing his defensive prowess and returning to form offensively. In 2024, he posted a .290 batting average with 27 home runs, 84 RBIs, and a .870 OPS, further proving he can still be a cornerstone player for a championship-contending team.
For the Yankees, Bellinger’s acquisition addresses several needs. With their offense in need of a boost, particularly in the outfield and at first base, Bellinger is a proven power hitter who can also provide speed and defensive versatility. His addition strengthens an already potent Yankees roster that includes stars such as Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and Gerrit Cole.
The Yankees’ general manager, Brian Cashman, expressed enthusiasm about the move: “Cody Bellinger is a special talent with a track record of success at the highest level. We believe his combination of power, speed, and defense will be a huge asset to our team. We’re excited to add him to the lineup as we work toward bringing a championship back to New York.”
Meanwhile, the Cubs receive RHP Cody Poteet in return. Poteet, 28, is a promising young arm who made his Major League debut in 2022. Although he has not yet become a fixture in the Yankees’ rotation, he showed flashes of potential with a strong fastball and breaking ball. The Cubs will look to develop Poteet into a more consistent pitcher in the coming years.
The trade represents a bold move by the Yankees as they aim to strengthen their chances of securing another World Series title. With Bellinger now on board, the Bronx Bombers have a formidable lineup capable of competing with any team in the American League.
Yankees fans will be eagerly awaiting Bellinger’s debut in pinstripes, and with the 2025 season just around the corner, the team is positioning itself for what could be an exciting and successful year.
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