"The baseball career is short" - Cody Bellinger on seizing the opportunity to join the Yankees as one of sports' greatest franchises
On Tuesday, the New York Yankees announced they had acquired former National League MVP Cody Bellinger in a trade with the Chicago Cubs. They also got cash considerations while sending RHP Cody Poteet to Chicago.
The club had an interest in Bellinger for quite a while. However, Juan Soto's decision to sign with the New York Mets last week almost sealed the deal for this trade.
The two-time All-Star is excited about his new opportunity. During his introductory press conference on Thursday, he stated his excitement to play for one of the most storied franchises in the sport.
"The baseball career is short. I have an opportunity to play for one of the best franchises in all of sports. I knew there was interest, and I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity" said Bellinger.
Bellinger did not want to pass up on playing for a team that has won an MLB record 27 World Series titles. They are also coming off a trip to the biggest series in October and will come into the 2025 season a contender.
He should fit into the lineup nicely alongside Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton. In 2024, he hit .266/.325/.426 with 18 home runs and 78 runs batted in.
Cody Bellinger does not have much experience playing at the Yankees' home stadium
Cody Bellinger cannot wait for this next chapter in his career. The New York Yankees are one of the most recognized professional teams in all sports, not just baseball.
They have a huge media footprint, a ginormous fanbase, and a team always expected to do well. They also have a great stadium, however, it is something that Bellinger will have to get used to since he has limited exposure there.
"Everything about it excites me. The organization, the fans, the stadium, the atmosphere. I actually have only played there once and that was in '23, and it was a really cool moment" said Bellinger.
Bellinger should not mind the dimensions of his new home field. Yankees stadium is a gift for left-handed batters. The same can be said about Fenway Park, a place he will frequent plenty while in the iconic pinstripes.
This is a great move for the Bronx Bombers. They get a player who fits their field's dimensions, is excited about the opportunity, and is ready to help the club in any way that he can.