One of the moves the New York Yankees made when they lost Juan Soto to the New York Mets was trading for Cody Bellinger of the Chicago Cubs. However, Bellinger’s three-year, $80 million deal has an opt-out after this season and he could hit free agency.
Not only is Bellinger a threat to leave in free agency, but he is also keeping one of the Yankees’ young, talented players on the bench. Jasson Domínguez was the Yankees’ top prospect last year, but is now in a rotational role with the team. ClutchPoints’ Zachary Howell proposed the Yankees trade Bellinger to the Atlanta Braves.
“With Giancarlo Stanton on his way back from injury, the Yankees will soon have too much talent and not enough starting spots to play them all,” wrote Howell. “That is a luxury for a contender, but New York could choose to move on from one of their players to bring in some bullpen help or potentially another starter for Boone’s rotation.
“Bellinger is the name that makes the most sense. Moving him opens up a spot for Dominguez while allowing Brian Cashman to sell high on his hot start. Contenders around the league would line up to make a deal to add the former National League MVP.”
The Braves entered Wednesday at 24-24, but Ronald Acuña Jr. is close to returning and Spencer Strider is back as well. They could quickly play themselves back into the postseason picture when they have all their players back.
“With Bellinger out of the Bronx, the path is clear for Dominguez to start every day in left field,” wrote Howell. “The 22-year-old would be able to get consistent appearances instead of a spot start every now and then. When thinking about what the Yankees could get in return, the Braves have a surplus in starting pitching with Spencer Strider’s return.”
Domínguez is slashing .241/.342/.421, but is splitting time between DH and left field. With Bellinger out of the picture, he would get consistent reps in the outfield and at-bats. Meanwhile, the Braves would be getting a two-time All-Star and former MVP.
Additionally, it would save the Yankees from having to deal with trading Bellinger if he does opt in for next season and they are ready to make Domínguez an everyday outfielder.
