The Yankees’ acquisition of Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs represents a significant move aimed at bolstering their lineup after the departure of Juan Soto. The trade, which involved sending Cody Poteet to the Cubs along with $5 million, has stirred some excitement due to Bellinger’s potential to fill multiple needs for the Yankees.
Bellinger, a former NL MVP and 2023 NL Comeback Player of the Year, is now several years removed from his peak performance. While he’s not the same player he was in 2019, he still brings value as a versatile bat and an above-average defender. His 2024 season was solid but not spectacular, posting a .266/.325/.426 slash line and a 111 OPS+. His peripheral stats, like a 32.9% hard-hit rate and a .301 xwOBA, suggest that he’s not a high-level slugger, but his batted ball profile—a higher fly-ball and line-drive rate compared to groundball-heavy hitters like Alex Verdugo—could make him a better fit in Yankee Stadium’s hitter-friendly environment. Statcast suggests that his power could have been even greater if he had played in the Bronx, estimating he would have hit 24 home runs in Yankee Stadium instead of the 18 he had with the Cubs.
One notable aspect of Bellinger’s game is his struggles against sliders. While he performed well against other pitch types, such as four-seam fastballs and changeups, his .179 batting average and .254 slugging against sliders in 2024 stood out as a weak spot. There’s potential for positive regression in this area, given that his past performance against sliders was better, and a change of scenery could help.
In terms of defense, Bellinger adds significant value with his flexibility. He can play center field, left field, and first base, giving the Yankees options across the outfield and allowing Aaron Judge to shift back to right field, a position that might be less physically taxing for him. Bellinger’s glove was solid in 2024, with a 0 OAA (Outs Above Average) and a 1 FRV (Framing Runs Value), and his strong arm and above-average speed make him a viable center fielder, even if he’s not elite in that role.
For the Cubs, moving Bellinger made sense given their roster construction. With young talent like Pete Crow-Armstrong emerging and a crowded outfield, Bellinger’s departure freed up space for other players. The Cubs didn’t lose much by sending Bellinger away in exchange for Poteet, a move that looks like a financial strategy to shed Bellinger’s contract and adjust their roster.
For the Yankees, this trade offers upside. Bellinger’s bat should be a welcome addition, especially with his ability to hit for some power and his potential to thrive in Yankee Stadium. Defensively, his versatility gives the team depth in the outfield and at first base, which is crucial for a team with several injury-prone stars. Overall, the trade is a win for the Yankees, especially considering the relatively low cost—just money and a minor-league pitcher. It’s a good move for the team as they aim to stay competitive in a tough division while addressing immediate needs in their roster.