Cubs Trade Cody Bellinger and Cash to Yankees for Cody Poteet: Full Breakdown
The baseball world is abuzz after the Chicago Cubs traded star outfielder and first baseman Cody Bellinger, along with cash considerations, to the New York Yankees in exchange for right-handed pitcher Cody Poteet. This deal signifies a bold move for both organizations as they gear up for the 2025 MLB season. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the trade, its financial implications, and how it impacts both teams moving forward.
Details of the Trade
To Yankees: Cody Bellinger (OF/1B), $5 million in cash
To Cubs: Cody Poteet (RHP)
The Yankees’ acquisition of Bellinger addresses their immediate need for a versatile and experienced bat following Juan Soto’s departure to the New York Mets in free agency. For the Cubs, this deal frees up salary space and brings in a promising arm to bolster their pitching depth.
Financial Breakdown
Bellinger, 29, is owed $27.5 million in 2025, with a $25 million player option for 2026. To facilitate the trade, the Cubs agreed to pay $5 million to offset his salary. The allocation includes:
$2.5 million for Bellinger’s 2025 salary.
$2.5 million to cover either his player option buyout or part of his 2026 salary if he exercises the option.
This financial maneuvering ensures the Yankees remain flexible while acquiring a player of Bellinger’s caliber without fully absorbing his substantial contract.
Cody Bellinger: What He Brings to the Yankees
Bellinger’s addition bolsters the Yankees’ lineup with a proven veteran who brings both offensive and defensive versatility. After three down years, Bellinger rediscovered his form with the Cubs in 2023, securing an $80 million contract over three years. In 2024, he posted a respectable .266/.325/.426 slash line with 18 home runs and 78 RBIs.
Key Attributes:
Defensive Versatility: Bellinger can play center field, left field, and first base. This gives the Yankees flexibility to use him in different roles, particularly as they develop rookie Jasson Dominguez.
Power Potential: While his 2024 numbers were solid, Bellinger’s MVP-winning 2019 season (.305/.406/.629, 47 home runs) remains a testament to his ability to be a game-changing bat when he’s at his peak.
Pedigree: A two-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner, Bellinger has the experience and talent to thrive in the Bronx spotlight.
With Juan Soto gone, the Yankees needed a middle-of-the-order presence. Bellinger’s arrival fits this need perfectly while maintaining their defensive prowess.
Cody Poteet: What He Brings to the Cubs
In return, the Cubs acquire Cody Poteet, a 30-year-old pitcher who showed promise in limited appearances with the Yankees. In 2024, Poteet posted a 2.22 ERA over 24⅓ innings, striking out 16 batters while walking eight. His career stats include a 3.80 ERA across three MLB seasons.
Key Attributes:
Versatility: Poteet has experience as both a starter and reliever, providing the Cubs with options for his usage.
Team Control: As a cost-controlled arm, Poteet offers the Cubs financial flexibility while adding depth to their pitching rotation.
Potential Upside: While not a top-tier prospect, Poteet’s performance in limited innings suggests he could contribute meaningfully to the Cubs’ rebuilding efforts.
Impact on the Yankees
The Yankees are clearly in win-now mode after falling short in the 2024 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Adding Bellinger, along with recent acquisitions of Max Fried and Devin Williams, positions them as a strong contender in the American League.
Projected Lineup Adjustments:
Center Field/Left Field: Bellinger’s versatility allows the Yankees to rotate him with Dominguez and other outfield options.
First Base: With Anthony Rizzo’s free agency, Bellinger could take over the position or serve as a backup to a potential free-agent signing like Pete Alonso.
Middle-of-the-Order Presence: Bellinger’s left-handed bat complements the Yankees’ right-heavy lineup, making him a crucial piece in balancing their offensive firepower.
Impact on the Cubs
For the Cubs, trading Bellinger signals a pivot toward retooling their roster after an 83-79 finish in 2024. By offloading his salary, they gain flexibility to pursue free agents and invest in other areas of need.
What’s Next for the Cubs?
Payroll Flexibility: With $5 million in savings, the Cubs can target key free agents or extend emerging players.
Focus on Development: Adding Poteet aligns with their strategy of acquiring younger, cost-effective talent to build for the future.
Trade Grade
Yankees: A-
The Yankees addressed a critical need by acquiring a versatile and experienced player in Bellinger. While his contract is substantial, the Cubs’ financial assistance makes the deal palatable. If Bellinger returns to his MVP-caliber form, this trade could be a home run for New York.
Cubs: B+
The Cubs succeeded in shedding payroll while acquiring a potentially useful arm in Poteet. While Bellinger’s departure leaves a hole in their lineup, the financial flexibility gained could help them improve across multiple areas.
Final Thoughts
This trade reflects two organizations with contrasting priorities: the Yankees aiming for immediate success and the Cubs preparing for long-term competitiveness. Bellinger’s addition solidifies New York’s status as a title contender, while the Cubs’ strategy positions them to rebuild for sustained success. As the 2025 MLB season approaches, both teams’ fanbases will eagerly watch how this trade shapes their futures.
