The Chicago Cubs are in a tough spot as they look to trade star outfielder Cody Bellinger, who opted into his $25 million player option for the 2025 season. While Bellinger’s talent is undeniable, his hefty price tag has left the Cubs scrambling to find a trade partner willing to take on the financial burden.
According to Bruce Levine of 670 The Score, three contending teams—the New York Yankees, Seattle Mariners, and Houston Astros—have expressed interest in the $80 million outfielder this winter. However, any potential deal hinges on whether the Cubs are willing to eat part of his salary to make him more appealing.
A Star Player with a High Price
Bellinger, a former National League MVP, had a solid 2024 season with a .266 batting average, 18 home runs, and 78 RBIs over 130 games. However, those numbers fell short of his standout 2023 campaign, where he hit 26 home runs and posted an impressive .881 OPS.
With his opt-in, Bellinger remains under contract with Chicago, but the team is keen to move him to make room for future flexibility. “As soon as star outfielder Juan Soto chooses which New York club he wants to take $600 million from in free agency, discussions around Bellinger will gain more traction,” Levine reported.
Potential Landing Spots
- New York Yankees: The Yankees are looking to solidify their roster, particularly at first base or in the outfield, depending on whether they can secure Soto in free agency.
- Seattle Mariners: Desperate for offensive firepower, the Mariners view Bellinger as a versatile option who could make an immediate impact.
- Houston Astros: With a need for both first base and outfield depth, the Astros are well-positioned to make a move if the Cubs are flexible on salary.
What’s Next for the Cubs and Bellinger?
The Winter Meetings are expected to bring clarity to Bellinger’s future, as teams await Soto’s free agency decision before making significant moves. For Chicago, the key lies in how much of Bellinger’s contract they’re willing to absorb to facilitate a trade.
While Bellinger’s skill set is highly sought after, the financial implications make his situation a tricky puzzle for the Cubs to solve. All eyes are now on the Winter Meetings to see if a blockbuster trade will come to fruition.
