A New MVP Contender Emerges: Yankees’ $26.6 Million Acquisition Ready to Take Center Stage
The Yankees have long been linked to Cody Bellinger, and 2025 might be the perfect opportunity to unlock his full potential. After a down year in 2024, Bellinger’s left-handed swing and strong defensive profile make him an ideal fit for Yankee Stadium. Given his past success and the change of scenery, he has the tools to become a key contributor for the Yankees.
A Natural Fit for Yankee Stadium
Bellinger’s lefty power is tailor-made for Yankee Stadium, with its short porch in right field. Last season with the Cubs, he hit 18 home runs while slashing .266/.325/.426, but Statcast data suggests that number could have risen to 24 if he had been playing in the Bronx. His slugging percentage would have likely jumped as well, giving the Yankees the power boost they desperately need.
The hitter-friendly dimensions of Yankee Stadium could help Bellinger rediscover the form that made him the 2019 National League MVP, when he hit 47 home runs with a .305/.406/.629 slash line and an incredible 161 wRC+. While he may not replicate that elite production, a resurgence to something closer to his 2023 season, where he hit 26 home runs with a .307/.356/.525 slash line and 136 wRC+, is realistic.
A Defensive Upgrade
Bellinger’s value extends beyond his bat. In 2023, he was worth 4.4 WAR, largely because of his contributions both at the plate and in the field. He remains an above-average center fielder and first baseman, giving the Yankees a defensive boost wherever they deploy him. While his defensive metrics took a slight hit in 2024 (-5.0 Def), his versatility and athleticism still provide an upgrade over their current options.
