The Yankees face an outfield void after Cody Bellinger’s opt-out, prompting speculation about a blockbuster trade for Mike Trout. While Trout’s contract is substantial, New York possesses the financial capacity to absorb it. This ambitious move would involve trading top prospects like Jasson Dominguez for the aging but still impactful hitter. The New York Yankees enter the offseason facing enormous pressure to stay competitive in an aggressive AL East landscape. Cody Bellinger’s decision to opt out of the final year of his $25 million contract has created a major outfield vacancy, forcing the Yankees to explore elite-level solutions. With expectations high and internal options limited, New York appears ready to swing big.At the same time, growing chatter around the Los Angeles Angels suggests they may finally entertain moving their franchise cornerstone, Mike Trout. The combination of Bellinger’s departure and Trout’s potential availability has sparked predictions that the Yankees could pursue one of the most ambitious trades in recent memory.
Why the New York Yankees Are Targeting Trout
Bellinger provided strong production in 2025 (.272/.334/.480, .814 OPS, 140+ games), but his opt-out leaves the New York Yankees without a dependable all-around outfielder. Trout, even while managing injuries and advancing age, remains one of MLB’s most impactful hitters. In 2025, he still delivered a .232/.359/.439 slash line, .797 OPS, and 121 wRC+ across 130 games.Mike Trout’s contract, which includes roughly $190 million through 2030 and a full no-trade clause, makes any trade complex. However, the Yankees are one of the few teams capable of absorbing both his salary and the pressure of such a blockbuster move.
Likely Trade Construction
A realistic trade package would require the Yankees to move elite prospects. Jasson Dominguez – one of baseball’s most hyped young outfielders – would headline the deal. Pitching prospects Cam Schlitter and Will Warren would also likely be included, along with additional controllable major-league players.For the Angels, the benefits include financial relief and a chance to finally rebuild their farm system. For New York, the move is a win-now gamble centered on Trout’s still-elite offensive ceiling.
Player Comparison Table
Player2025 StatsOPSwRC+Games PlayedContract RemainingMike Trout.232/.359/.439.797121130~$190 million through 2030Cody Bellinger.272/.334/.480.814N/A140+Opted out of $25M final year
Benefits and Drawbacks
Yankees’ Perspective
Benefits
:• Immediate replacement for Bellinger with a generational hitter• Yankee Stadium’s hitter-friendly environment could elevate Trout’s power• Veteran leadership and postseason urgency added to the lineup
Drawbacks
:• Taking on a massive long-term contract• Significant injury concerns• Defensive logjams with Aaron Judge in RF and Giancarlo Stanton at DH
Angels’ Perspective
Benefits
:• Infusion of elite prospects and pitching depth• Major payroll flexibility• Strategic reset amid Trout’s reduced outfield availability
Drawbacks
:• Losing the face of the franchise• No guarantee prospects replicate Trout’s impact
Trout’s Perspective
Benefits
:• Joins a perennial contender• Can shift to DH or a lighter defensive role• Best chance at postseason success late in his career
Drawbacks
:• Health risks remain• High-pressure environment in New York
Team Impact Table
TeamBenefitRisk/DrawbacksYankeesStar power, playoff boostInjury risk, huge contract, positional conflictsAngelsProspects, major salary reliefLosing franchise icon, uncertain prospect outputTroutJoins contender, reduced workloadHealth concerns, pressure to performThis potential trade represents the classic battle between short-term ambition and long-term sustainability. The Yankees win big if Trout stays healthy and produces at even a fraction of his prime levels. The Angels secure the future by acquiring youth and financial freedom. Trout himself likely gains the most, joining a legitimate contender with a clearer path to postseason success.Also read: MLB trade rumors: Blue Jays could chase $430 million superstar as Bo Bichette filler and improve title oddsIf executed, this deal could redefine the balance of power in the AL East and become one of the defining moves of the 2025–26 MLB offseason.