As the New York Yankees get used to a world without outfielder Juan Soto, general manager Brian Cashman has two spots to fill on his infield. Could he land outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger and second baseman Nico Hoerner in a blockbuster trade with the Chicago Cubs to satisfy those needs?
The Bombers have reportedly been in active trade negotiations with the Cubs regarding Bellinger. However, Jon Heyman of the New York Post has cited money as the main roadblock to a deal getting done right now. The 2019 National League MVP Award winner is due $52.5 million through 2026 if he doesn’t opt out next winter. He’ll earn a $27.5 million salary in 2025.
Bellinger fits nicely with the Yankees as their primary first baseman. Hoerner, a 2023 Gold Glove Award winner, would also fit nicely taking over for Gleyber Torres, who is a free agent. What might it take for the Bombers to land both players?
NJ.com’s Randy Miller thinks offering starting pitcher Marcus Stroman and pitching prospect Will Warren should be enough to get it done.
“Bellinger isn’t close to what he was in his 47-homer, NL MVP season for the Dodgers in 2019, but he’ll still hit you 25-to-30 homers without striking out much while playing excellent defense,” Miller wrote.
“Hoerner? He doesn’t hit for power, but he’s a right-handed bat who will hit .260, steal 30 to 40 bases, and play the heck out of second base. He’s won a Gold Glove and is a night-to-day difference in the field from Torres.”
This type of deal would solidify the Yankees’ infield without breaking the bank. However, there could still be an opening at third base depending on what New York does moving forward. Jazz Chisholm Jr. locked down the hot corner after arriving at the trade deadline last summer. But since Aaron Judge is heading back to right field in 2025, Chisholm could take over in center field.
