The New York Yankees are fighting tooth and nail with several MLB franchises to retain generational star Juan Soto, seeking a record $500-700 million deal this free agency. Obviously, given their payroll, the Yanks will set a financial limit they wish to adhere to avoid luxury tax penalties.
However, there is a high chance Juan Soto signs elsewhere as many team’s spending power is greater than the New York Yankees. That being said, in case of a false pursuit, the Bronx Bombers are linked to a two-time Silver Slugger Winner from Chicago Cubs for a potential blockbuster trade deal.
Cody Bellinger Realistic Fall Back Options For Yankees
The New York Yankees are setting their sights on potential offseason acquisitions to strengthen their roster, and Cody Bellinger’s name has surfaced as a possible trade target once again. With the future of superstar Juan Soto still undecided, Yankee general manager Brian Cashman is carefully assessing moves that will ensure the team stays competitive in 2025. Bellinger, a two-time Silver Slugger and a player with an impressive defensive profile could fill multiple needs for the Yanks, making him an intriguing candidate in any blockbuster trade this winter. Bellinger has spent the last two seasons with the Chicago Cubs after signing a one-year deal in 2023, followed by a three-year, $80 million contract.
While he had the option to opt-out after the 2024 season, he chose to stay, securing his spot in Chicago unless the Cubs decide to trade him. In 2024, he posted a solid .266/.325/.426 slash line with 18 home runs, 23 doubles, 78 RBIs, and 72 runs scored across 569 plate appearances. His ability to perform consistently, coupled with his versatility in playing both outfield and first base, makes him an attractive option for the Yankees. The Bombers’ current roster needs to align well with what Bellinger offers. If the Yanks can secure Juan Soto, Bellinger would still bring value to the outfield while also addressing a gap at first base. New York recently declined Anthony Rizzo’s option for 2025, creating a void in the position. If Bellinger took over in the outfield, his presence would allow Aaron Judge to shift to a corner position, adding a defensive boost and easing the physical demands on Judge.
Will Yanks Bank On Teoscar Hernandez?
The New York Yankees are entrenched in the bidding war for Juan Soto, with rumors suggesting they’re the frontrunners. However, the deal could run up to $700 million, and while the Yankees remain confident, they’re also preparing for the possibility of Soto choosing another team. As a contingency plan, the Yankees have set their sights on Los Angeles Dodgers star Teoscar Hernandez.
According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Hernandez is a sought-after player who could be a viable backup if the Yankees miss out on Soto. Hernandez, who is 32, had a standout 2024 season with the Dodgers, earning his second All-Star selection and third Silver Slugger award. He posted a .272/.339/.501 slash line, along with 33 home runs, 99 RBIs, and a 137 OPS+ (making him 37% better than the league average).
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