The Chicago Cubs are actively exploring trade options for outfielder Cody Bellinger, a player known for his strong bat and defensive flexibility, able to play both first base and the outfield. With his skill set, Bellinger is expected to attract significant interest from multiple teams, but his hefty contract could limit the number of suitors, as some teams may be hesitant to take on his full salary.
MLB insider Ken Rosenthal confirmed this, noting the challenges the Cubs may face in making a deal. Rosenthal added that while the New York Yankees have shown interest in Bellinger in the past—partly due to his father Clay’s history with the team—the $32.5 million Bellinger is owed over the next two years could impact the return the Cubs receive. The Cubs might need to absorb a large contract or accept less valuable prospects in the trade.
Given the Yankees’ needs, a potential trade could work for both sides. The Yankees are looking to offload a contract of their own, with Marcus Stroman set to earn $18 million in 2025, along with a vesting option for 2026. Stroman, who is familiar with the Cubs, could be the “inflated contract” the Cubs take on in exchange for Bellinger.
Though a straight swap may not be enough, adding a prospect or two could make the deal feasible. Bellinger would fill a key role for the Yankees, offering depth as a backup for outfielder Juan Soto or even replacing Soto if the Yankees fail to re-sign him. Additionally, Bellinger’s ability to play first base would address the gap left by Anthony Rizzo’s departure, giving the Yankees an everyday first baseman and a fourth outfielder.
For the Cubs, they would shed Bellinger’s contract, which is worth around $30 million over the next two years, and take on Stroman’s deal, valued at about $20 million per year if his vesting option is triggered. In return, the Cubs would receive two of the Yankees’ top 30 prospects: pitchers Brock Selvidge and Trystan Vrieling. Selvidge, a 22-year-old left-hander, has shown promise with a sub-4.00 ERA in his four years in the minors, while Vrieling, 24, is a less proven but potentially valuable pitcher after just one year of professional play.
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