Yankees Acquire Former MVP Cody Bellinger from Cubs

In a bold move to bolster their roster, the New York Yankees have traded for 2019 National League MVP Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs, revitalizing fan hopes of bringing back a former superstar. As the team seeks to fill the void left by Juan Soto's record-breaking contract with the New York Mets, they are betting on Bellinger to return to his MVP form.

The deal, revealed by ESPN's Jeff Passan, sends Bellinger to the Bronx alongside $5 million from the Cubs to offset his hefty contract, which includes player options for 2025 and 2026, amounting to a staggering $52.5 million. In exchange, the Yankees will part ways with right-handed reliever Cody Poteet. With Bellinger now set to take on center field duties, Aaron Judge will shift to right field after manning center for the entirety of the 2024 season.

Interestingly, Bellinger's connection to the Yankees runs deep; his father, Clay Bellinger, was part of the Yankees organization from 1999 to 2001, adding a sentimental layer to this trade for the family.

Cody Bellinger’s Career Journey

Cody Bellinger’s career has seen its share of rollercoaster moments. Bursting onto the scene in 2017 with the Los Angeles Dodgers, he secured the NL MVP title in just his third season. His exceptional 2019 performance, where he was valued at 8.6 wins above replacement, made him one of the most sought-after players in baseball. However, a fateful celebration during the 2020 NLCS—where he dislocated his shoulder while high-fiving teammate Kiké Hernández—led to a decline that he has struggled to overcome.

The subsequent years were rough for Bellinger, as he battled injuries and a decline in performance that saw him become virtually unplayable by 2021. The Dodgers opted to non-tender him, allowing him to enter free agency. The Cubs then took a chance on the former star with a low-risk “pillow contract,” and Bellinger responded with a comeback in 2023, ultimately earning the NL Comeback Player of the Year award.

Despite a brief resurgence, Bellinger’s play took a downturn in 2024, compelling the Cubs to seek a trade and allowing Bellinger a fresh start with the Yankees. At 29, he still has the potential to recapture the form that dazzled fans and defenses alike just a few seasons ago.

Looking Ahead: Can Bellinger Reclaim His Stardom?

While questions linger about his shoulder's long-term health, the Yankees are optimistic that this change of scenery could be just what Bellinger needs to reignite his once-promising career. It's a high-stakes gamble for both the team and the player—will the Yankees' faith in Bellinger pay off, or will he continue to struggle under the weight of expectations? Fans are eager to find out as the new season approaches!