Top 3 Trade Destinations For Chicago Cubs' Cody Bellinger

The Chicago Cubs were apparently taken by surprise when Cody Bellinger decided to pick up his $27.5 million player option for 2025 rather than heading back out into free agency.

It's likely due to the unsatisfactory experience he's had in free agency the past couple of years, and the middling season he's coming out of, hitting .266 with 18 homers.

Bellinger, although he had a down season after his 2023 comeback year, can still do it on defense, both at first base and at any of the three spots in the outfield.

Any acquiring team would be taking on Bellinger not only for next season, but also potentially 2026, as he has another player option.

Let's have a look at three top destinations that make sense for the former NL MVP:

New York Yankees

Bellinger has been rumored to be part of the Yankees' significant multi-faceted "backup plan" if they lose Juan Soto.

The Cubs have reportedly been looking to move Cody Bellinger... what's his trade market?

"I think he's a Yankee... put him at first base." - Harold Reynolds pic.twitter.com/2y4xTQ4eth
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) November 26, 2024

Seattle Mariners

The M's are in need of an offensive boost. They might be willing to take a shot at the player who once launched 47 homers in his MVP season (yes, that was five years ago), and who bounced back with a 26-HR season and a 139 OPS+ in 2023. They could use help both at first base and in the outfield, so Belli fits anywhere they want.

New York Mets

If the Mets fail in re-signing their longtime first baseman Pete Alonso, perhaps they pivot and try to bring in Bellinger to man first. He doesn't possess the power that Polar Bear does, but his defense would be an improvement, and who knows, maybe Bellinger can bounce back once again at the plate. The money certainly wouldn't be an issue for the Mets to take on.