The Chicago Cubs are reportedly looking to trade former MVP Cody Bellinger despite the player opting into the second year of his contract. The team didn't perform well last year, and is evidently looking to shed payroll and get some assets in return for a quality player.
There could be multiple potential suitors, but one stands out: the New York Yankees. MLB insider Harold Reynolds, a former All-Star player himself, believes that's where Bellinger is headed next.
Reynolds said on MLB Network's "Hot Stove" (0:50):
"I don't think it's that difficult to find a trade partner for Cody Bellinger. He can play first base and anywhere in the outfield... I still think it works, I think he's a Yankee. You trade him to the Yankees, they'll put him at first base... They'll figure it out, maybe they take the money."
Co-host Robert Flores said that the Cubs, in this scenario, should ask for Jasson Dominguez, but Reynolds said that would be too high a price.
Either way, the former player is convinced a trade to New York works for both sides and is more likely than not to happen. Bellinger hit .266 with 18 home runs and 78 RBI in 130 games played in 2024.
MLB analyst dampens likelihood of Cody Bellinger trade
According to USA Today reporter Bob Nightengale, the Chicago Cubs are calling and offering to trade Cody Bellinger to "anyone and everyone." Nightengale also noted that "no team has expressed strong interest" so far.
Per Andrew Peters' Monday article on Bleacher Report, an MLB GM said:
"Come on. Who's going to touch that contract? The risk is just too great for the production."
Bellinger will be paid a $25 million salary in 2025 and can get another $25 million in 2026 or be given a $5 million buyout. The former Los Angeles Dodgers star used his 2025 player option earlier this month, which got him a guaranteed $32.5 million for the year.
There had been rumors that Bellinger would opt out and enter free agency again, but that never came to fruition. Now, the Cubs are looking for, and so far not finding, a trade partner.