Because the July 30 MLB commerce deadline approaches, Cody Bellinger has emerged as one of the intriguing potential commerce targets. The previous MVP has loved a resurgence this season, slashing .270/.330/.417 with 25 extra-base hits.
With the Cubs (41-49) presumably being sellers at this 12 months’s deadline, Bellinger shall be one of many gamers who sparks essentially the most curiosity from contending groups.
Listed here are three groups that would realistically commerce for Cody Bellinger.
New York Yankees
The Yankees are all the time out there for affect gamers, and Bellinger suits the invoice completely. Aside from the league’s finest hitter, Aaron Choose, the Yankees have struggled with consistency of their outfield this season because of accidents and underperformance. Bellinger may present a big increase, each offensively and defensively.
Bellinger’s left-handed bat can be a welcome addition to a Yankees lineup that leans closely right-handed. His capacity to play all three outfield positions, in addition to first base, offers the Yankees with much-needed flexibility. Bellinger’s energy is tailored for Yankee Stadium, with its brief right-field porch. Moreover, his expertise in high-pressure conditions can be invaluable within the postseason.
Cleveland Guardians
The Guardians are aiming for a deep playoff run in 2024. Nonetheless, pretty much as good as they’re, their outfield may use some reinforcement, each offensively and defensively. Bellinger may very well be the right resolution to solidify their lineup and clear up the errors within the outfield.
Bellinger’s addition would bolster an already potent Guardians lineup that features stars like Jose Ramirez and Josh Naylor (to not point out the MLB batting chief, Steven Kwan). His energy would complement the contact-heavy lineup, offering extra stability and safety for his or her star hitters hitters.
San Francisco Giants
If the Giants wish to make the playoffs in 2024, the time to behave is now. Buying Bellinger may very well be a game-changer for the Giants, solidifying their place and placing them in place to make a critical postseason push.
The Giants have relied on a mixture of veterans and rising gamers, and Bellinger would match completely into their versatile roster. His capacity to play a number of positions would give supervisor Bob Melvin flexibility in developing lineups and defensive alignments. Bellinger’s left-handed energy would additionally play nicely at Oracle Park regardless of its pitcher-friendly dimensions.
