Cody Bellinger, the New York Yankees’ $275 million free-agent signing, is batting just .189 with one home run in 35 games this season, according to MLB.com’s batting stats. The former National League MVP, acquired in a blockbuster deal last offseason, has failed to live up to expectations, sparking discussions among analysts and fans about his future with the team.
The struggles come as the Yankees, a franchise accustomed to championship-caliber performances, face a critical juncture in their 2024 season. With the team currently holding a 19-16 record—good for third place in the AL East—Bellinger’s underperformance has become a focal point in postgame discussions. “He’s not the same hitter,” said Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge in a postgame interview, adding that Bellinger’s approach at the plate has changed since joining the Yankees.
Bellinger’s walk rate has also drawn attention. Through 35 games, he’s drawn 15 walks, the most by any Yankee position player this season, according to Baseball-Reference. However, his inability to convert those walks into runs has left fans and analysts questioning whether the Yankees made the right call in signing him to the largest contract in baseball history.
Why Is Cody Bellinger Struggling in 2024?
Multiple factors contribute to Bellinger’s slump, according to scouting reports and player interviews. The transition from the NL to the AL has been cited as a key issue, with Bellinger adjusting to the smaller AL parks and different pitching styles. “The adjustment period is real,” said Yankees manager Aaron Boone in a recent press conference. “He’s working through it, but it takes time.”
Additionally, Bellinger’s defensive shifts—particularly his move from outfield to first base—have been scrutinized. While his defense at first has been solid, some analysts suggest the positional change has affected his offensive timing. “He’s not as explosive as he was in Los Angeles,” said FanGraphs analyst Mitch Lichtman, noting that Bellinger’s swing mechanics have shifted since leaving the Dodgers.
One bright spot in Bellinger’s season has been his plate discipline. Despite his low batting average, he’s drawn walks at a 10.3% rate—well above his career average of 8.1%. However, his 1.2% walk-to-strikeout ratio (per FanGraphs) suggests he’s still swinging at too many pitches outside the zone.
How Do Bellinger’s Stats Compare to His Career Averages?
| Stat | 2024 (Yankees) | Career (Through 2023) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| BA | .189 | .273 | -84 points |
| OBP | .264 | .368 | -104 points |
| SLG | .278 | .479 | -201 points |
| HR | 1 | 44 (career) | -43 HRs (pace) |
| BB% | 10.3% | 8.1% | +2.2% |
| K% | 25.7% | 21.3% | +4.4% |
Source: Baseball-Reference, FanGraphs
The numbers tell a stark story: Bellinger’s slugging percentage (.278) is nearly half of his career mark (.479), while his strikeout rate (25.7%) is at a career high. Even his walk rate, while improved, hasn’t translated into runs due to his lack of power.
What Are the Yankees’ Next Steps for Bellinger?
The Yankees’ front office has remained tight-lipped about Bellinger’s future, but rumors of a potential trade have circulated in recent weeks. According to The Athletic, multiple teams—including the Dodgers and Braves—have shown interest in acquiring Bellinger, though no official discussions have been confirmed.
Yankees GM Ryan Sowards has emphasized patience, stating in a recent interview that the team is “committed to giving Cody every opportunity to succeed.” However, with the trade deadline approaching on July 31, the pressure is mounting. “If he doesn’t turn it around soon, something will have to give,” said MLB Network insider Jeff Passan.
For now, Bellinger continues to take his walks—often to the frustration of Yankees fans. His 15 walks in 35 games are the most on the team, but his inability to drive in runs has left many questioning whether the Yankees’ investment is paying off.
What Happens Next for the Yankees and Bellinger?
The next few weeks will be critical for both Bellinger and the Yankees. If Bellinger fails to improve his batting average and power numbers, a trade or bench role may become inevitable. Meanwhile, the Yankees will need to determine whether they can afford to keep him on the roster past the deadline.
One factor working in Bellinger’s favor is his defense. At first base, he’s been a plus-10 defensive run saver (per FanGraphs), providing value even if his bat isn’t producing. However, with the Yankees already loaded at first base with Giancarlo Stanton and Joe Espada, his role may become untenable if his offense doesn’t improve.
The trade deadline looms as the most likely turning point. If Bellinger remains a non-factor, the Yankees may explore deals to move him—potentially for prospects or younger players. Alternatively, they could opt to bench him in favor of younger talent like Tyler O’Neill or Oscar Mercado.
What comes next? The Yankees’ season hangs in the balance. If Bellinger doesn’t show signs of improvement by mid-July, a trade or demotion seems likely. For now, the team is holding steady—but the clock is ticking.
Fans and analysts alike are watching closely. The question remains: Can Cody Bellinger turn his season around, or will the Yankees be forced to make a move before the trade deadline?
Share your thoughts in the comments—do you think Bellinger is a bust, or will he bounce back?
