Yankees News: Cody Bellinger Link Deepens After Top Insider Reveals Pinstripes’ Disinterest In Re-signing Anthony Rizzo

The New York Yankees appear ready to part ways with two key infielders, with no plans to pursue Anthony Rizzo and Gleyber Torres in free agency this offseason. Despite both players expressing interest in returning, YES Network’s Jack Curry revealed that the team is set to move in a different direction. Most likely, the crew will be aiming at creating more flexibility and potentially bringing in new talent. 

With the Yankees set to move on from Anthony Rizzo, they could look to Ben Rice to take over at first base. New York could also swing big for a prime free-agent slugger like Pete Alonso, the former Mets powerhouse. Christian Walker is also up for grabs, who is a three-time Gold Glove winner. And don’t forget Cody Bellinger, who’s coming off a good season and could be a potential target to not only fill first base but also upgrade the outfield. 

Why Cody Bellinger could be the best fit for the Yankees 

It’s no secret that the Chicago Cubs are open to trading Cody Bellinger this winter. The former MVP, who had a strong 2024 season, has reportedly been the subject of trade discussions. The Cubs are exploring their options after Bellinger opted into his $27.5 million player option for 2025. MLB Network’s Harold Reynolds believes Cody Bellinger is a strong candidate to be traded to the New York Yankees this offseason. One of the key reasons the New York Yankees make a great fit for Cody Bellinger is their ability to afford his $27.5 million salary. 

The Yankees have the assets to put together a trade package that could lure the Cubs. Bellinger would provide a major upgrade at first base, a position the Yankees are looking to stabilize after a tough year from 35-year-old Anthony Rizzo. Rizzo, who is a free agent this winter, struggled offensively in 2023. He may be heading towards retirement. Bellinger, on the other hand, could offer the Yankees both power and versatility. More teams could also find Bellinger fit for their team. One of those crews could be the Blue Jays. 

Toronto Blue Jays are one of the “best matches” 

It makes sense for Toronto to pursue Cody Bellinger; he’s primarily a positional fit as an outfielder is needed by the Blue Jays. Along with catcher George Springer and Gold Glove winner Daulton Varsho, he would also create a formidable trio. On days when Vladimir Guerrero Jr. needs a rest or is assigned as the designated hitter, the 29-year-old may also start at first base. Their lineup would become more flexible as a result.

Bellinger’s move also makes financial sense; he has a 2026 player option in addition to his 2025 contract of $27.5 million. Cody may be rented for a year under this arrangement, but Toronto would only have him for two seasons at most. The team would have some financial flexibility as a result. Cody Bellinger might provide the Jays with a significant short-term boost without interfering with their long-term payroll plans, as they already have a core group of young talent. Finally, it’s difficult to overlook Bellinger’s advantages. an MVP winner in the past who has hit 25 or more home runs in four seasons.

After hitting 26 home runs during the 2023 season, the 29-year-old demonstrated that he is still a 20/20 danger. In 2025, the Blue Jays would be more competitive if they added him to the middle of their lineup. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that Toronto’s farm system isn’t very good, which might make it more difficult for them to outbid other teams on the trade market. Nevertheless, the Blue Jays should give a serious run at Cody Bellinger if they have the appropriate package.