Cody Bellinger trade grades: Yankees get ‘A’ for steady pivot after Juan Soto loss, Cubs win cost-cutting game

The New York Yankees acquired former National League MVP Cody Bellinger and $5 million in a trade with the Chicago Cubs, sending veteran pitcher Cody Poteet to Chicago. The Yankees received an A grade for taking a chance on Bellinger’s potential offensive and defensive contributions, while the Cubs earned a B grade for freeing up payroll space for potential future moves. The Cubs may use the saved money to pursue pitching upgrades, potentially targeting players like Jesus Lúzardo or Luis Castillo. Poteet, who has limited major league experience, was also acquired by the Cubs in the trade. A pitcher with a strong arsenal of pitches, including two fastballs in the low-to-mid-90s and quality secondaries, has excelled as a starter in the minors with a 3.92 ERA and a 3.27 strikeout-to-walk ratio in Triple-A in 2024. With remaining minor-league options, he could provide depth for the Cubs either in the rotation or bullpen as needed.

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