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Yankees Acquire Former NL MVP Cody Bellinger from Cubs for Poteet, $5M Cash

Dec 17, 2024, 10:01 PM

The New York Yankees have acquired outfielder and first baseman Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs in a trade that also includes cash considerations. In exchange, the Cubs received right-handed pitcher Cody Poteet. Bellinger, a 29-year-old former National League MVP, is set to join the Yankees on a contract that includes a $27.5 million player option for 2025 and a $25 million player option for 2026 with a $5 million buyout. The Cubs are sending $5 million to the Yankees to offset part of Bellinger's salary, with $2.5 million allocated for each of the next two years. This move marks the Yankees' first significant offensive addition of the offseason, following the departure of Juan Soto to the Mets. Last season, Bellinger hit .266 with 18 home runs and 78 RBIs in 130 games for the Cubs. Bellinger is expected to primarily play center field, potentially allowing Aaron Judge to shift to right field. The trade also reflects the Cubs' strategy to manage their payroll and outfield depth, particularly after acquiring Kyle Tucker.