As the offseason market heats up, major baseball names are making headlines, and former Los Angeles Dodgers star Cody Bellinger is once again at the center of attention. The 2020 World Series champion, who had a standout season with the Chicago Cubs, is reportedly in discussions that could lead him to don the iconic pinstripes of the New York Yankees.
Bellinger, who previously enjoyed great success with the Dodgers, including his MVP season in 2019, faced challenges in the following years. However, his impressive comeback in 2023 with the Cubs has reignited interest in his talents, positioning him as one of the most sought-after players this offseason. The Yankees, eager to improve their roster and re-establish themselves as contenders, view Bellinger as a potential game-changer.
According to the New York Post, negotiations between the Yankees and Cubs are intensifying, with the Yankees keen on securing Bellinger’s services. Following the New York Mets’ high-profile signing of Juan Soto, the Yankees are motivated to make significant moves of their own, and Bellinger fits the bill perfectly. His versatility as a left-handed hitter and his ability to play center field would allow superstar Aaron Judge to return to his preferred position in right field, thereby strengthening the team’s overall lineup.
Adding another layer of significance to this potential move is the familial connection Bellinger has to the Yankees. His father, Clay Bellinger, was part of the Yankees during their championship runs from 1999 to 2001, winning two World Series titles. For Cody, joining the Yankees would be a meaningful return to the organization that his father once helped elevate, adding an emotional dimension to the negotiations.
However, the path to finalizing this deal is not without obstacles. Bellinger’s contract, valued at approximately $52.5 million over the next two years, includes a $25 million option for 2026. The Yankees are reportedly seeking to have the Cubs absorb part of this financial obligation, leading to a negotiation gap of over $10 million that both sides are currently trying to bridge. Despite these hurdles, discussions remain active, with the Yankees eager to expedite the resolution as they respond to their rivals’ aggressive offseason maneuvers.
Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman has emphasized that the team is not finished with its offseason strategy. He stated, “We have to continue to look for opportunities in the marketplace, whether it’s through trades or free agency.” This approach underscores the urgency with which the Yankees are pursuing Bellinger and other potential acquisitions.
As the situation evolves, Dodgers fans are left to ponder what the future holds for Bellinger. Would they prefer to see him return to Los Angeles, or do they believe a new chapter with the Yankees would be best for his career? The discussions surrounding Bellinger are sure to continue, and both fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see where the talented outfielder will land.
