The New York Yankees took a gamble this offseason by acquiring outfielder Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs. After a somewhat underwhelming 2024 season, many questioned whether the former MVP still had elite performances ahead.
But just two games into the regular season, it’s beginning to look like the Yankees made a brilliant move.
Recovering From a Down Year Bellinger’s 2024 season wasn’t awful, but it didn’t live up to expectations for a player of his caliber. He posted a .266/.325/.426 slash line with 18 home runs and 78 RBIs in 130 games, achieving a 109 wRC+, just 9% above league average, which isn’t the mark of a superstar. However, the Yankees believed there was more to Bellinger’s game—and they may have been right.
Hot Start and Powerful Hitting Bellinger has been off to an explosive start in pinstripes. Through two games, he’s hitting .571/.500/1.000, with one home run, five RBIs, a 10% walk rate, and a 10% strikeout rate. Though it’s a small sample size, Bellinger’s swing looks revitalized.
His 451-foot home run on Saturday wasn’t just impressive for its distance—it was one of the longest of his career. He’s making consistent hard contact and rediscovering the raw power that once made him one of the most feared hitters in the game.
MVP Potential is Returning There’s a noticeable confidence in Bellinger’s approach, reminiscent of his 2019 MVP season. Back then, he overwhelmed pitchers with speed, timing, and elite pitch recognition. Early signs in 2025 suggest those traits are resurfacing.
He’s handling fastballs well, being selective with pitches, and showing an ability to hit to all fields. Yankees fans are surely pleased to see these qualities already emerging after the trade.
More Than Just a Bat What sets Bellinger’s resurgence apart is his defense. Unlike Juan Soto, whose offensive output is matched by below-average defense, Bellinger offers the Yankees a complete game.
He can play all three outfield positions and even step in at first base when needed. His versatility gives manager Aaron Boone more flexibility with lineup decisions and in-game changes.
Contract Situation Adds Intrigue The Yankees aren’t paying Bellinger’s full salary. The Cubs have provided financial relief, meaning New York will owe less than the $26.25 million he’s set to earn through 2025. There’s a player option for 2026, but if Bellinger continues performing at a high level, he’ll likely opt out and explore free agency.
That could leave the Yankees in a tough spot next offseason. If Bellinger maintains this production, New York may want to secure him long-term—or risk losing a key contributor to their lineup.
A Perfect Fit for the Bronx The Yankees are known for their power-driven team, and Bellinger brings that in spades. His swing is perfectly suited for Yankee Stadium’s short right-field porch, and he’s already making an impact.
If his early-season success continues, general manager Brian Cashman may have just pulled off one of the offseason’s biggest wins.
And if you weren’t paying close attention, you might have missed the resurgence of a star.
