The New York Yankees are actively working to strengthen their outfield during the offseason but have faced challenges following Juan Soto’s departure. Soto, who had a remarkable 2024 season with the Yankees, signed a record-breaking $765 million contract with the New York Mets, leaving Yankees fans disappointed. This has led to increased scrutiny over the team’s offseason negotiations.
One player currently on the Yankees’ radar is Chicago Cubs’ All-Star outfielder Cody Bellinger. Reports indicate that the Yankees are in discussions with the Cubs regarding a potential trade for Bellinger. However, progress has been slow due to ongoing salary negotiations. Bellinger, a former AL MVP, has two years remaining on his contract, which guarantees him $52 million. The Yankees are reportedly asking the Cubs to cover $10 million of his salary as part of the deal, but the Cubs have yet to agree to these terms.
No more Soto drama, time to improve the team
— Fondeur / first AI company in DR!! (@fondeur27) December 14, 2024
The news of the Yankees’ interest in Bellinger has sparked mixed reactions among fans. While some fans are eager for the team to move on from the Soto saga and improve the roster, others expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the trade talks. Many pointed out that the details being reported have not changed significantly over the past few days, with some questioning the need to repeat the same updates.
SOURCE: The New York Yankees are deep into talks on a trade to acquire Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs.
The Yankees are pushing the Cubs to pay at least $10 million of Bellinger’s salary.
With two more years remaining in his contract with the Cubs, Cody Bellinger is…
— Héctor Gómez (@hgomez27) December 14, 2024
Despite the delays, Bellinger is seen as a versatile addition who could help fill the void left by Soto. In addition to his outfield skills, Bellinger can also play first base, addressing another area of need for the Yankees following the departure of Anthony Rizzo. Rizzo left the team after the 2024 season, leaving a gap in the infield that the Yankees are keen to address.
The Yankees were also reportedly interested in acquiring Houston Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker earlier in the offseason. However, they opted not to trade AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil in exchange for Tucker, who later signed with the Cubs. This decision has further heightened the importance of securing a deal for Bellinger, especially as the Yankees look to add power hitters to compensate for Soto’s 41 home runs last season.
It remains to be seen whether the Cubs will meet the Yankees’ financial demands in the trade negotiations. The outcome of these talks could significantly shape the Yankees’ ability to rebound from their offseason setbacks and build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.