The New York Yankees took a gamble this offseason by trading for outfielder Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs. After a mediocre 2024 season, many questioned whether the former MVP still had elite years left in him.
But just two games into the season, it’s looking like the Yankees may have struck gold.
Recovering from a Down Year Bellinger’s 2024 stats weren’t bad, but for a player of his caliber, they didn’t meet expectations. He posted a .266/.325/.426 line with 18 home runs and 78 RBIs in 130 games, and a 109 wRC+, which was only 9% above league average—not quite the superstar numbers fans were hoping for. However, the Yankees saw potential beneath the surface—and they may have been right.
Off to a Hot Start The early returns in New York have been impressive. In just two games, Bellinger is hitting .571/.500/1.000 with one home run, five RBIs, a 10% walk rate, and a 10% strikeout rate. While it’s a tiny sample size, Bellinger seems to have rediscovered his swing.
His 451-foot home run on Saturday was not only a massive shot but also one of the longest of his career. He’s hitting the ball harder and tapping into the power that once made him one of the most feared hitters in the league.
MVP Form Reappears Bellinger’s approach has a certain confidence to it, reminiscent of his MVP-winning 2019 season when he was just 23. That year, he dominated with a combination of bat speed, timing, and top-tier pitch recognition. Early in 2025, those same traits are starting to show again.
He’s crushing fastballs, avoiding borderline pitches, and hitting to all fields. For Yankees fans, this is exactly what they hoped for after the trade.
A Complete Player What makes Bellinger’s resurgence even more valuable is his defense. Unlike players like Juan Soto, who excel offensively but struggle defensively, Bellinger brings top-tier play on both sides of the ball.
He can handle all three outfield positions and even step in at first base if needed, offering manager Aaron Boone flexibility with the lineup and matchups.
Financial Structure Adds Interest The Yankees aren’t paying Bellinger’s full contract either. The Cubs provided some financial relief, meaning New York is responsible for less than the $26.25 million owed through 2025. There’s a player option for 2026, but if Bellinger keeps performing like this, he’ll likely opt out and hit the open market.
This situation could create a fascinating dilemma for the Yankees next offseason. If he maintains this level of production, New York may want to extend him long-term—or risk losing a key part of their lineup.
A Perfect Fit in the Bronx The Yankees are built on power, and Bellinger brings exactly that. His swing is perfectly suited for Yankee Stadium’s short right-field porch, and he’s already making an impact.
If his early performance is any indication of what’s to come, general manager Brian Cashman may have just pulled off one of the most significant moves of the offseason.
And if you blinked, you may have missed the return of a star.