The outcome of the Juan Soto sweepstakes will have a major impact on how the New York Yankees approach the rest of their offseason. Regardless of what happens, general manager Brian Cashman will need to find a new first baseman. Could a trade for Chicago Cubs slugger be a possibility? Bellinger is currently under a three-year, $80 million contract he signed last spring. He had the option to opt out and enter free agency again this winter but chose not to.
The 2019 National League MVP is set to earn $27.5 million in 2025, and rumors have circulated that the Cubs may be open to trading him. Bellinger’s skill set has often been considered a good match for the Yankees, and that still holds true. If Soto returns to the Yankees, Bellinger could become their primary first baseman. If Soto is traded elsewhere, Bellinger could shift to center field, allowing Aaron Judge to play right field. So, what might a trade between New York and Chicago look like if Cashman decides to pursue Bellinger? FanSided’s Zach Pressnell proposed the following hypothetical trade:
– Yankees receive: outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger – Cubs receive: right-handed pitcher Marcus Stroman, left-handed pitcher Brock Selvidge and right-handed pitcher Trystan Vrieling
Marcus Stroman played for the Chicago Cubs from 2022 to 2023 before joining the New York Yankees in 2024. During his time with the Yankees, he posted a 4.31 ERA across 154 2/3 innings, but he did not pitch in the postseason. Additionally, prospects Selvidge (seventh) and Vrieling (28th) finished the season ranked among the top 30 Yankees prospects according to MLB.com.
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