Aaron Judge’s ability to seamlessly transition between right field and center field has given the New York Yankees unparalleled flexibility. However, as Judge enters the later years of his career, questions arise about how much time he should spend in center field, a position known for its demanding physical requirements.
To safeguard Judge’s health and ensure his longevity, the New York Yankees are exploring ways to minimize his time in center field. Signing or acquiring a versatile outfielder is one possible solution. Interestingly, an MLB analyst suggested that the front office should go after a star outfielder from the Chicago Cubs.
Cody Bellinger Could Be Key To Securing Yankees’ Outfield Depth
As the New York Yankees look to bolster their roster for the 2025 season, the potential addition of versatile outfielder Cody Bellinger has sparked intrigue among analysts and fans alike. A Cubs insider recently suggested that Bellinger’s skill set and flexibility could make him a perfect fit for the Bronx Bombers, particularly if the Yankees aim to reduce Aaron Judge’s workload in center field. Aaron Judge has proven his ability to excel in center field despite primarily being a right fielder. However, the physical demands of playing center field regularly could pose long-term risks, especially considering Judge’s history with injuries and his significant contract commitment through 2031. As Cubs insider Patrick Mooney explained, “Aaron Judge not playing center field all the time.”
Bellinger, a former MVP, Gold Glove winner, and World Series champion, is a rare talent who brings elite defensive skills and offensive upside. During his 2024 season with the Chicago Cubs, Bellinger demonstrated his value as a player who can cover all three outfield positions and even step in at first base. Mooney noted that Bellinger’s versatility was a significant asset for Cubs manager Craig Counsell. “You can move him around. He can play all three outfield positions, he can play first base, and he does it all with really good game awareness. He has speed, there’s a lot to like about Cody Bellinger,” Mooney said. Adding Bellinger to the Yankees’ lineup could give the team much-needed flexibility. He would allow Judge to shift back to the right field more frequently while providing solid contributions offensively and defensively. Moreover, Bellinger’s left-handed bat adds balance to the Yankees lineup.
Yanks Sweeten Deal For Juan Soto With Record Offer & Opt-Outs
The New York Yankees are going all-in on securing superstar outfielder Juan Soto, reportedly offering him a groundbreaking deal that would pay him $41 million per year. According to MLB sportscaster Chris Hamilton, the Yankees have not only exceeded Aaron Judge’s annual salary but also agreed to Soto’s demand for multiple opt-out clauses.
Soto’s reported offer of $41 million per year makes him the highest-paid player in Yankees history on an annual basis, surpassing the $40 million per year Judge received in his nine-year, $360 million contract. One of the pivotal aspects of the offer is the inclusion of opt-out clauses after the fifth, sixth, and seventh years of the proposed deal. These clauses provide Soto with flexibility, allowing him to test free agency again.
Stay tuned with Sports News International for more such updates about your favorite MLB team
