MVP Outfielder Could Be New York Yankees Trade Target at Deadline

The New York Yankees know they need help in the outfield, especially since there is no timetable on the return of Aaron Judge.

Where might the Yankees turn for help? Well, a recent MLB.com mailbag connected the Yankees to a National League outfielder who is experiencing a resurgence with his new team after a three-season slump.

That player, if he hits the market, would provide the Yankees with a solid left-handed bat that can play all three outfield positions:

I could see Cody Bellinger as a potential trade target for the Yankees, who would only be on the hook for the remainder of his $17.5 million salary (plus a $5 million buyout of his $25 million mutual option for 2024).

Bellinger signed with the Chicago Cubs last offseason out to prove that his downturn in production in Los Angeles since his 2019 MVP season could be turned around. From 2020-22, Bellinger never batted better than his .239 in 2020 and never hit more than his 19 home runs in 2022.

As the NL MVP in 2019, he batted .305 with 47 home runs and 115 RBI.

With the Cubs he’s recaptured some of that magic. His batting average is 30 points better than his three-season average and he’s hit seven home runs and driven in 22 RBI.

He missed a month due to injury, but he is on course to a solid season. The Cubs are under .500 and still in the race in the NL Central, and MLB.com wrote that the Cubs may not make a decision until the final week to buy, sell or stand pat.

By then, the Yankees may have more clarity in the outfield. Judge just started baseball activities on Wednesday, though he revealed earlier this week that he has torn ligaments in his injured toe.

The Yankees have Harrison Bader back from the injured list. Giancarlo Stanton is more likely to DH as he works back from injury. Jake Bauers, Billy McKinney, Willie Calhoun (on the injured list) and Isiah Kiner-Falefa are also options.

Because of Bellinger’s bat and versatility, he could take on a primary role with the Yankees the day he steps foot in Yankee Stadium.

But that’s only if the Cubs are willing to deal him.