The New York Yankees, currently boasting a stellar 54-33 record, are trailing the Baltimore Orioles by just one game in the American League East. Ahead of the July 30 trade deadline, the team is expected to fortify its lineup with an additional hitter. According to Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer, Cody Bellinger of the Chicago Cubs is a potential target for the Yankees.
Rymer proposed a trade scenario that would bring Bellinger to New York:
**Yankees receive:** Cody Bellinger, who can play centerfield or first base.
**Cubs receive:** Agustin Ramirez, a catcher ranked as the Yankees’ 20th prospect. Ramirez, 22, has excelled this season with a .942 OPS over 58 games at the Double-A level and recently moved up to Triple-A.
Reports from last season indicated mutual interest between the Yankees and Bellinger, 28, in trade discussions. The Athletic’s Levi Weaver highlighted on July 2 that Bellinger has drawn attention from the Yankees in their coverage of the trade deadline.
Bellinger’s potential acquisition addresses immediate and long-term needs for the Yankees. With Giancarlo Stanton injured, Aaron Judge has shifted to right field, while Trent Grisham is handling centerfield. Bellinger could step in right away and potentially upgrade over Grisham.
However, Rymer pointed out that the need in centerfield may not be prolonged. When Stanton returns, Judge could revert to centerfield. The uncertainty at first base is a concern, especially with Anthony Rizzo sidelined due to a fractured forearm, prompting the Yankees to seek alternatives rather than wait for his recovery. Ben Rice has filled in at first base during Rizzo’s absence, showing promise with a .270 batting average in his 13 big-league games, though adjustments from opposing teams could challenge his performance.
Moreover, Rymer emphasized the Yankees’ need for another reliable hitter, even when Stanton, Judge, and Juan Soto were in the lineup together. Despite Stanton’s 18 home runs, his .302 on-base percentage underscores the team’s desire for consistent offensive production.
Despite the Cubs’ struggles this season, currently 8 games below .500 and 12 games behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central, they may not aggressively sell players at the trade deadline. The Athletic’s analysis suggested the Cubs’ front office has been making incremental moves to enhance a team that leads the majors with 19 one-run losses, indicating a cautious approach unless circumstances drastically change.
Bellinger’s contract adds complexity to any potential trade. He signed a three-year, $80 million deal with the Cubs before the season after winning the NL MVP award with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2019. While he has shown improvement this season with a .267/.327/.416 slash line, along with 9 home runs and 34 RBIs through July 2, his contract includes opt-outs after 2024 and 2025, presenting both rental and long-term financial considerations.
Rymer noted the Yankees’ looming luxury-tax concerns, estimated at $61.5 million, which could influence their pursuit of more cost-effective upgrades. They also face decisions regarding Soto’s contract, potentially impacting their willingness to commit financially to acquiring Bellinger.
