The New York Yankees need an outfielder and first baseman for next season and are seeking former NL MVP Cody Bellinger in trade talks with the Chicago Cubs.

Per Jon Heyman of the New York Postthe Yankees and Cubs made “some progress” in discussions about Bellinger, but money remains a hurdle in getting anything done.

Heyman noted that the Cubs want the Yankees to still owe nearly all of the $52.5 million owed to Bellinger.

There’s a chance Bellinger becomes a free agent after next season, which would save his team $25 million in 2026. His three-year, $80 million contract, signed in February, includes exit options after each of the first two seasons.

Bellinger picked up his 2025 option with the Cubs in November after having a solid season, although not at the same level as 2023.

The two-time All-Star finished 10th in the NL MVP voting two years ago after hitting .307/.356/.525 with 26 home runs and 20 RBI in 130 games. Last season, he posted a .266/.325/.426 slash line with 18 home runs and nine stolen bases in 130 games.

In many ways, the Cubs no longer operate like a big-market team. They’re still in the top 10 in payroll, but haven’t really been involved in conversations with top free agents.

It’s interesting that the Cubs and Yankees are in discussions for Bellinger, as both teams have been linked to Houston Astros star Kyle Tucker, according to Ken Rosenthal and Chandler Rome of The Athletic.

Bellinger is not involved in talks with the Astros, who are pursuing Seiya Suzuki and Isaac Paredes from Chicago. It’s unclear whether the Cubs would need to move on from Bellinger’s money before attempting to add Tucker, who is estimated to make $16.7 million next season in his final year as Arbiter.

The Yankees’ interest in Bellinger isn’t hard to figure out. They have needs in the outfield after losing Juan Soto and at first base after declining Anthony Rizzo’s option.

Heyman noted that New York is also pursuing free agents Pete Alonso and Christian Walker to potentially fill the void at first base.

Bellinger can play all three outfield spots and first base, providing roughly average defense wherever he lines up. His line drive swing from the left side of the plate would likely result in more home runs at Yankee Stadium with the short porch in right field if he ends up going to the Bronx.