The Yankees’ dilemma: Cody Bellinger’s renewal would put two players in jeopardy

With spring training just around the corner, the atmosphere in the Yankees’ offices is one of maximum pressure. After a winter marked by Hal Steinbrenner’s financial austerity, the management headed by Brian Cashman finds itself at a crossroads that could define the future of the franchise: keep its outfield “jewels” or trade them for the starting pitching the team desperately needs to survive the start of the 2026 season.

The Yankees are going for Edward Cabrera

Recent reports from The Athletic indicate that the Yankees have intensified talks with the Marlins for right-hander Edward Cabrera. The Dominican’s appeal is undeniable: at 27 years of age, he is coming off his best campaign (8-7, 3.53 ERA) and has a fastball that averages almost 97 mph.

However, Cabrera’s real value lies in his contract. Under team control until 2028 and with a projected salary of just $3.75 million for this year, Cabrera represents the ideal solution for a Yankees team looking for elite talent without triggering the luxury tax. But the Marlins won’t give him away cheaply; the asking price for any negotiation starts with the names of Jasson Dominguez or Spencer Jones.

Cody Bellinger moves the board

The possible arrival of Cabrera is not the only factor jeopardizing the careers of the young prospects. Rumors of a meeting with free agent Cody Bellinger have complicated the roster picture.

If Bellinger returns to the Bronx, the outfield space would be drastically reduced, leaving only one vacancy to be contested between Dominguez and the towering Spencer Jones.

• Jasson Dominguez: Although he has shown flashes of stardom with his speed and power, doubts about his defense and performance against left-handed pitchers remain.
• Spencer Jones: The left-handed slugger has the ideal physique for Yankee Stadium, but his high strikeout rate (over 40% in the minors) raises fears about his ability to adapt immediately to the majors.

Cashman’s urgency for a trade is due to an injury-riddled rotation. With Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon and Clarke Schmidt projected to start 2026 on the injured list, the Yankees need an impact arm to avoid sinking in the American League East during the month of April and are therefore considering so many options, but none concrete at this time.