Yankees Face Tough Decisions on Struggling Players Amidst Trade Speculations

NEW YORK, NY — The New York Yankees are facing challenging decisions regarding their roster as star player Aaron Judge tries to carry the team after Juan Soto’s departure. Meanwhile, Cody Bellinger, a recent acquisition intended to fill Soto’s shoes, struggles at the plate.

Bellinger is hitting just .221 with 10 extra-base hits over 36 games this season. Playing under a three-year, $80 million contract, he has a player option worth $25 million for the 2026 season. MLB analyst Caldera noted that Bellinger may weigh his options and potentially trigger his player option if his performance does not improve.

“If the offense stays flat, Bellinger might consider triggering his option, looking for a market reset,” wrote Caldera. The former MVP and two-time All-Star previously revitalized his career with the Chicago Cubs, but the Yankees have yet to see that same production.

The Yankees might consider moving him at the trade deadline if Bellinger does not regain his form. Bellinger’s future hinges not just on his decision regarding the option but also on whether the Yankees believe in his ability to contribute significantly.

In other news, the Los Angeles Dodgers are managing the struggles of pitcher Rōki Sasaki, who they signed with high expectations after a stellar career in Japan. Sasaki has posted a 4.72 ERA with 22 walks in eight games this season, prompting speculation about his future.

Manager Dave Roberts has resisted sending Sasaki to the minor leagues, emphasizing the importance of experiencing the challenges of Major League Baseball. “He’s going through some struggles right now. Major League hitters tell you what adjustments you need to make,” said Roberts. The Dodgers hope Sasaki can adjust and harness his previous success, as the team aims for a championship.

Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox find themselves in a complex situation with third baseman Rafael Devers. After Triston Casas‘ injury, Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow asked Devers to play first base, a request that upset him.

Devers expressed his dissatisfaction publicly, leading to speculation that a trade could be on the horizon. Rashel reported that despite the situation, Devers has been performing well at the plate, slashing .319/.429/.558 since early season struggles.

The Red Sox have not made any official statements about a possible trade or changes in Devers’ position. However, there’s speculation that several teams would be interested in him, given his batting skills, despite the significant contract he is under.

As the season progresses, the decisions regarding Bellinger, Sasaki, and Devers will have implications for the Yankees, Dodgers, and Red Sox, respectively, shaping the narratives of all three franchises going forward.