The New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs recently made significant trades that have left fans debating which deal is better. The Yankees acquired Cody Bellinger from the Cubs in exchange for right-hander Cody Poteet, while the Cubs acquired Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros. Both teams made savvy moves, but the outcome and cost were vastly different.
Deesha Thosar, an MLB reporter for FOX Sports, favors the Yankees’ deal, citing that they essentially got Bellinger for free. The Yankees sent only 30-year-old right-hander Cody Poteet to the Cubs, while the Cubs had to part with top prospect Cam Smith and other players to acquire Tucker. Bellinger’s versatility in the field and his potential to bounce back from a down year in 2024 make him a steal for the Yankees.
Rowan Kavner, also an MLB writer for FOX Sports, prefers the Cubs’ deal, noting that they got the better player in Tucker. Tucker is a perennial All-Star who is expected to continue producing at an elite level, and the Cubs got him without sacrificing too much in terms of prospects. The Cubs saved money in the Bellinger salary dump and can use it to address other areas of need.
Both deals have their merits, but the Yankees’ acquisition of Bellinger is seen as a savvy move to add talent to their roster. The risk lies in the financials, as the Yankees are betting on Bellinger bouncing back to his All-Star form. The Cubs, on the other hand, got the player they desperately needed and are expecting big things from him.