The New York Yankees are primarily focused on re-signing outfielder Juan Soto, but general manager Brian Cashman still has several roster needs to address following the team’s first trip to the World Series since 2009.
One potential move could involve Chicago Cubs outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger, who surprised many by opting into his $27.5 million salary for 2025. Despite this, the Cubs appear eager to move on from Bellinger after two years in Chicago.
Bellinger posted a .266/.325/.426 slash line with 18 home runs, 23 doubles, 78 RBIs, and 72 runs in 569 plate appearances during the 2024 season. The 2019 NL MVP has been linked to the Yankees as a possible addition multiple times over the years.
Joel Sherman of the New York Post believes Bellinger would be a strong addition to the Yankees’ roster regardless of Soto’s future. Sherman proposed a three-team trade that could free the Yankees from Marcus Stroman’s $18 million salary while securing Bellinger.
The idea involves the Yankees sending Stroman to the San Francisco Giants—who showed interest in him last year—with San Francisco sending Taylor Rogers to the Cubs, enabling Chicago to save money while sending Bellinger to New York.
Stroman had a 10-9 record with a 4.31 ERA, a 1.47 WHIP, and 113 strikeouts over 154 2/3 innings during his first year with the Yankees. However, he did not contribute during the postseason and may not be central to the Yankees’ future plans, especially as they pursue free agents like Corbin Burnes and Max Fried.
Bellinger is entering the second year of his three-year, $80 million deal but has the option to opt out and test free agency again next winter. Adding the left-handed power hitter would give the Yankees a strong, short-term solution at first base.