New York, Dec 18, (V7N) - The New York Yankees made a major move on Tuesday, acquiring former MVP Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs. This comes just days after they missed out on All-Star right fielder Juan Soto, who signed with the Mets. In the trade, the Yankees sent right-hander Cody Poteet to the Cubs and received $5 million.

Bellinger, a two-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner, will be the Yankees’ new everyday center fielder, with occasional appearances at first base. This will shift two-time MVP Aaron Judge back to his usual position in right field.

The Yankees have been active in improving their roster after losing out on Soto, having also signed left-handed starter Max Fried and acquired All-Star closer Devin Williams. The trade for Bellinger follows talks that began after Soto's signing, with the Yankees and Cubs initially at an impasse over Bellinger’s contract. Eventually, they reached a deal where both teams agreed to split the remaining $52.5 million on Bellinger's contract.

Bellinger is set to earn $27.5 million in 2025 and could make $25 million in 2026 or opt out for a $5 million buyout. The Cubs, who will cover part of Bellinger’s salary, plan to use the savings to acquire a starting pitcher.

The Yankees are now expected to sign a free-agent first baseman and have started talks with players like Pete Alonso, Christian Walker, Carlos Santana, and Paul Goldschmidt. Alonso, who hit 34 home runs last season, is the only one of the four who hasn’t won a Gold Glove.

Bellinger’s arrival in New York is notable as his father, Clay Bellinger, played for the Yankees and won two World Series titles with the team over 20 years ago.

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