The New York Yankees are loading their Christmas stockings, making major splashes in this offseason market. A week before the holidays, the Yankees finalized a trade that’s bringing eight-year veteran Cody Bellinger to the Bronx.
The Yankees recently locked in starting pitcher Max Fried, as well as closer, Devin Williams. Two key areas of interest were filled accordingly. Brian Cashman and his executive team was not done there.
Newest Yankee Player Increases Value in Championship Chase
Anthony Rizzo became a free agent after the season. Rizzo held down the corner at first base, but his uncertainty in performance and consistency was undesirable when considering his return. The Yankees answered back with Bellinger, a talent that fills the role with value.
Bellinger’s Career This Far
The first baseman and outfielder have eight seasons in the major leagues after his draft selection in 2013 by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Bellinger inserted himself in two all-star appearances in 2017 and 2019.
He spent six seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers and two seasons with the Chicago Cubs. In 2017, he won the National League Rookie of the Year, and in 2018, he won the NL MVP for the National League Championship Series.
In 2019, Bellinger won a Gold Glove Award, a Sliver Slugger Award, and all MLB Team One. Most recently, in 2023, Bellinger won the NL Comeback Player of the Year and another Silver Slugger award.
The Statistics
The 2024 season was a decently productive one. The numbers were less than Bellinger is used to, but he posted a .266 batting average, an on-base percentage of .325, and a slugging percentage of .426.
Bellinger rocked 18 home runs this season with 137 hits, 78 RBIs, and 72 runs. Taking it a year back in 2023, the first baseman smacked 26 home runs and 97 RBIs.
So far, his career numbers read .259/.334/.484 on slashes, along with 196 home runs, 597 RBIs, and 942 hits.