As the July 30 trade deadline approaches, the New York Yankees are identifying their roster needs, with first base being a notable concern. Sports Illustrated’s Evan Massey suggests that GM Brian Cashman should consider trading for Chicago Cubs outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger as a replacement for the injured Anthony Rizzo.
Despite Rizzo’s injury, there were already rumors that the Yankees were seeking an upgrade at first base. Potential targets have included Paul Goldschmidt, Pete Alonso, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Now, Bellinger’s name is being mentioned as a potential trade target due to the Cubs’ ongoing struggles. The Cubs, currently last in the National League Central, have lost four consecutive games and are five games behind the final NL Wild Card spot.
The Yankees, meanwhile, have hit a rough patch, losing eight of their last ten games. Despite this, they hold a 52-30 record and lead the American League East by one game over the Baltimore Orioles, putting them in a stronger position to buy compared to Chicago.
Bellinger, despite not matching his standout 2023 performance this season, would still be a significant boost to the Yankees’ lineup. Last year, he slashed .307/.356/.525 with 26 home runs, 97 RBIs, 95 runs scored, and 20 steals. He re-signed with the Cubs for three years and $80 million, with opt-outs after the 2024 and 2025 seasons. This year, Bellinger is hitting .273/.333/.432 with nine home runs, 34 RBIs, and 32 runs scored through 291 plate appearances.
Rizzo, sidelined with a fractured forearm for about two months, was already under scrutiny due to his early-season struggles, hitting just .223/.289/.341 in 291 plate appearances. Bellinger would likely be seen as a half-season rental but could significantly enhance the Yankees’ lineup.
The idea of Bellinger joining the Yankees isn’t new. During his resurgent 2023 season on a one-year deal, there were rumors of him fitting well in the Bronx. Though those rumors subsided after the Yankees traded for Juan Soto, Bellinger’s name is resurfacing as the Yankees seek to boost their offense, potentially improving their underperforming infield.
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