Cody Bellinger
Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees’ offense has been underperforming this year, ranking near the bottom of the league in several key statistical categories. The lack of consistent run production has put additional pressure on the pitching staff and has contributed to the team’s struggles in the standings. Hence, they had some fresh faces in the clubhouse to give the team a new spark.

One major area of concern is the outfield. Since Aaron Judge has gotten injured, the team has lacked the presence of a strong position player. As the trade deadline is approaching, the Yankees have multiple options available on the market. One of the names buzzing for Bombers is Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger, who recently showed a glimpse of his talent at the Yankee stadium.

   

Yankees Should Start Pressing Cubs To Trade Cody Bellinger

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Cody Bellinger, a former National League MVP, has shown himself to be a dynamic and impactful player during his time with the Dodgers. His ability to hit for both power and average, coupled with his speed and defensive skills, make him an enticing target for the Yankees. However, after the MVP season, his form tumbled a bit. Now that he is with the Chicago Cubs, Cody has found a new life. This season, he is hitting .303 with nine home runs and 29 RBIs. Most recently, against the Yankees at the very own Yankee stadium, Cody hit a home run and scored an additional run to lift the Cubs to a 3-0 win.

Certainly, Cody Bellinger is nowhere close to his MVP self. But he is better than any of the current active players in the Yankees lineup. Moreover, Yankee Stadium’s dynamics will suit Cody’s left-handed batting style, as we saw on Friday. His payroll of $17.5 million salary is affordable but will lead to Steve Cohen’s tax violation. On the other hand, the Cubs would not mind selling. They are witnessing a positive run but remain below .500. A couple of top prospects in exchange should do the job just fine for the Yanks. Ultimately, the decision to pursue a trade for Cody Bellinger rests with the Yankees’ front office. They must carefully assess the team’s needs, the potential cost of acquiring Bellinger, and the long-term implications of such a trade.

Cody Bellinger Reacts To Being Linked To Yanks

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Well, it turns out Cody Bellinger reads the news after all. After a stellar outing against the Yankees at the latter’s home, the Cubs’ outfielder spoke to the reporters on the sidelines. Firstly he shared his experience of playing in Yankee Stadium. Cody termed the atmosphere as electric and said he was super excited to play in the beautiful park.

Further, Jon Heyman of the New York Post made him aware that his name has surfaced as a potential trade candidate for the Yankees. To this, Cody Bellinger said that he understands the circumstances he is playing in. But since it’s not in his control, he tends not to think about it. The focus not right now is on the Cubs, and his loyalty will stay with the team.