Could Cody Bellinger be the missing piece for the New York Yankees? New York, as we know, is in active pursuit of Juan Soto. However, they need to have a backup, a Plan B, so that they can pivot in case the 26-year-old doesn’t land up in pinstripes. And if that situation arises, one name coming forth that Yankees could look to is Bellinger, the Chicago Cubs outfielder and first baseman, whose team is looking to trade him away as soon as possible, and without shying away from that fact.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today called this news “the worst-kept secret at the GM meetings.” For the New York Yankees, adding Cody Bellinger brings plenty of advantages. He is a jack-of-all-trade kind of player and could provide defensive flexibility when addressing the offensive consistency. With the team also looking for free-agent pitchers like Max Fried or Corbin Burnes, Bellinger’s trade could free up cash for them. However, the Yankees have another huge advantage in signing Bellinger, and that is their chance to safeguard the face of the franchise—Aaron Judge.

Can Bellinger be the shield of Aaron Judge in 2025?

Cody Bellinger’s 2024 season was pleasant at most, and he slashed 18 home runs and 78 RBIs across 130 games. But then, given a little decline in his performance, he opted for his $27.5 million player option for 2025, making him a prime trade candidate if the Cubs falter before the deadline. The Yankees have a golden opportunity to get Bellinger to the team—it could be to bolster their lineup but also help Aaron Judge.

During a recent episode of Pinstripe Territory, Patrick Mooney of The Athletic mentioned why the Yankees should have their eyes on Bellinger. Mooney mentioned, “Two-way center fielders are really hard to find. If you’re the Yankees, maybe Aaron Judge not playing center field all the time would be a good way to protect your very long-term investment.” And Mooney is right; Aaron Judge is the cornerstone of the franchise, but keeping him always in the centerfield is risky. Because it is a rather demanding position and chances of injury are high.

Aaron Judge has seven years left in his contract, so he needs that extra protection. So, adding Cody Bellinger to the lineup could help with that. Mooney further says, “He can play all three outfield positions; he can play first base, and he does it all with really good game awareness.” So, for the Yankees, getting Cody Bellinger might not all be about adding depth but a more strategic move to protect their star player.

Will the Yankees take the risk with Cody Bellinger?

Cody Bellinger, despite being a versatile player who has proved his mantle, remains a tough sell in the trade market. No teams as such are interested in him, even though, as we know, the Chicago Cubs want to offload him. There is a major reason behind it: Bellinger’s hefty contract. He is owed $27 million in 2024, and to put it in the picture—that’s more than Bryce Harper’s!

Bob Nightengale mentioned that one GM said, “Who’s going to touch that contract? The risk is just too great for the production.” And he might be on to something; Cody Bellinger no doubt had a standout year in 2023. He earned NL Comeback Player of the Year by smashing 26 home runs and driving in 97 RBIs. But his performance has slowed down this year, with 18 home runs and 78 RBIs. Given this decline, some teams may be cautioned about taking on the remaining years of the contract.

It now looks like the Chicago Cubs will need to absorb a part of his salary to make this trade happen. Whether the New York Yankees take in the gamble seems to be the big question. But if protecting Aaron Judge could be a big prerogative, this seems to be a significant move. What do you think? Let us know below.