MLB Reports: This Upcoming Season Yankees To Add Star Slugger To The Team

Early in the trade deadline rumour mill, it appeared like Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger might be joining the Yankees. But then Chicago got hot and snatched him off the market, while the Bombers chose to effectively do nothing.

To say the least, New York has had a disappointing season, but the organization is filled with potential. The Yankees are likely a year or two away from returning to the postseason, and the team is said to be interested in star slugger Cody Bellinger this summer.

He’s batting in 450 plate appearances.With 23 home runs, 84 RBI, 79 runs scored, and 19 steals, he hit 320/.364/.552. That translates to a 143 wRC+ and 4.0 fWAR. If the season ended today, those would be his finest marks since his NL MVP performance in 2019 (161 wRC and 7.8 fWAR).

MLB Reports: This Upcoming Season Yankees To Add Star Slugger To The Team

While improved health will benefit the Yankees, acquiring another slugger or starting pitcher may be beneficial. According to Jon Heyman, Chicago Cubs star Cody Bellinger has been suggested as a prospective match several times.

“Cody Bellinger and Matt Chapman both would fit, but the competition will be keen,” Heyman said. “Bellinger looks especially enticing as an outstanding center fielder and left-handed hitter who has regained near-MVP form on the North Side of Chicago. He’d be a great pickup, as long as they let him do what he’s doing now and don’t mention the words “launch” or “angle.”

The 28-year-old is expected to get the greatest free-agent contract for an offensive player other than Shohei Ohtani, and the Yankees make perfect sense as a match.

Bellinger has already been connected to the Yankees and would be an excellent acquisition. New York could use another power hitter, and the former Los Angeles Dodger fits the bill. Furthermore, the Yankees have been in need of outfield help, which Bellinger would provide.

The 2019 National League Most Valuable Player has rediscovered his form as a Cubs player this season and appears to be his previous self.

 

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