As the New York Yankees continue to navigate the aftermath of their unsuccessful pursuit of Juan Soto, they now turn their attention toward Chicago Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger. A former National League Most Valuable Player, Bellinger is no stranger to the baseball limelight and brings a combination of experience and potential that could invigorate the Yankees' lineup.
Last season, Bellinger recorded a slash line of .266/.325/.426 with 18 home runs and nine stolen bases. However, those familiar with his career know that Bellinger's performance can be mercurial. Over the past seven years, his OPS has varied by at least 110 points each season, highlighting the uncertainty that accompanies his undeniable talent.
Yet, the upside of acquiring Bellinger is evident. Just a year ago, he notched 26 home runs with a potent 139 OPS+. Furthermore, Statcast analytics suggest that if Bellinger had played in Yankee Stadium last season, his home run count might have risen by six, thanks to the stadium's hitter-friendly dimensions. This potential boon underscores the strategic interest the Yankees have in incorporating Bellinger’s skill set into their lineup.
Another appealing aspect of Bellinger's performance is his strategic ability to pull the ball in the air, ranking him in the 89th percentile in this metric. This attribute aligns well with Yankee Stadium's short right-field porch, providing a tactical advantage should the Bronx Bombers secure his services.
Financial considerations also play a critical role in any possible acquisition. Bellinger is currently set to earn $27.5 million next season, with the Cubs appearing keen to reallocate this significant salary. His contract includes a $5 million buyout option, along with a player option for an additional $25 million in the following season. This flexibility could be crucial for the Yankees, who are presently cautious with their payroll after their recent high-profile investments.
In comparison, Teoscar Hernández's deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers last winter, a one-year agreement worth $23.5 million, serves as a relevant financial benchmark for gauging Bellinger’s market value. Bellinger’s under-thirty status also adds a layer of appeal, suggesting he may still have plenty of productive seasons ahead.
The Yankees are placing considerable emphasis on adding Bellinger to enhance their batting order, particularly in light of his power and versatility. However, they must carefully evaluate this potential acquisition against the backdrop of Bellinger's fluctuating performance metrics and the substantial financial commitments involved.
While the challenges are apparent, so too are the opportunities. Cody Bellinger might just be the spark the Yankees need as they look to retool—not merely for short-term gains but with an eye toward sustained success. Much will depend on the Yankees' willingness to embrace both the financial implications and the gamble on Bellinger's future consistency and impact on the field.