In the aftermath of the New York Yankees' unsuccessful pursuit of Juan Soto, attention now pivots towards the possibility of acquiring Cody Bellinger, the Chicago Cubs' highly touted outfielder. Known for his stellar track record, Bellinger’s prowess on the field has made him a focal point of discussion among baseball circles.
Bellinger’s name is already etched in the annals of baseball history, having once claimed the coveted National League Most Valuable Player award. Last season, his performance showcased a solid .266/.325/.426 slash line, with the added benefits of 18 home runs and nine stolen bases. Despite this steady output, Bellinger is known for his season-to-season variability, often seeing swings of at least 110 points in his OPS over each of the past seven years. This fluctuation is a critical consideration for any franchise looking to secure his services.
Moreover, Bellinger is just a season removed from a remarkable 26-home run campaign, posting a striking 139 OPS+. Interestingly, analytics courtesy of Statcast suggest a fascinating what-if: had Bellinger played his last season in Yankee Stadium, an environment notably conducive to power hitters, he might have added six more home runs to his tally. This insight highlights the potential value he could bring to a team like the Yankees, who are keen on injecting more power and versatility into their batting lineup.
Another aspect of Bellinger’s profile that bears significance is his propensity to pull the ball in the air, ranking in the 89th percentile in this category. This skill set proposes an exciting fit for Yankee Stadium, where pulled fly balls are often rewarded handsomely with home runs.
The Cubs, meanwhile, have shown a willingness to offload Bellinger’s hefty $27.5 million salary scheduled for next season, indicating a potential readiness to negotiate. Included in his contract is a $5 million buyout option and a player option allowing for an additional $25 million the following season. This financial component adds a layer of complexity, necessitating a careful evaluation by interested teams, such as the Yankees, as they assess their payroll commitments.
The Yankees, having made significant recent investments in their roster, must scrutinize the financial implications of adding Bellinger. While his aptitude is undeniable, the inconsistencies in his performance metrics are a critical factor for any front office to consider. Balancing financial prudence with the allure of adding a player of Bellinger’s caliber is a tightrope the Yankees must walk.
In the broader context, the baseball marketplace is witnessing a move towards one-year lucrative contracts for players who boast a strong skill set yet carry some degree of risk. Teoscar Hernández’s one-year, $23.5 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers last winter exemplifies this trend, providing a benchmark for negotiations surrounding Bellinger, who importantly remains on the right side of 30 years old.
As the Yankees edge closer to making a decision, Bellinger remains an enticing option. The franchise understands the allure of adding a player who has demonstrated exceptional potential in the past and who fits well with their current and future objectives. Whether they will navigate the financial hurdles to bring Bellinger to New York is a narrative that promises to unfold in the coming weeks, keeping fans and stakeholders on the edge of their seats.