"Makes no sense"; "This has turned into a clown show" - Fans react as Yankees reportedly eye new 1B ft. Pete Alonso & others

The New York Yankees may have missed out on bringing Juan Soto back into the fold this offseason, however, this has not prevented the team from getting back out on the market.

Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman and the rest of the front office has been busy looking at ways that they will be able to improve the club ahead of the 2025 campaign.

The Yankees remain one of the top clubs in the American League heading into 2025, however, they have some roster questions that need to be answered. One of those questions revolve around the club's plans at first base. With veteran Anthony Rizzo's contract option denied by the team, the Yankees are looking to upgrade the position.

The Bronx Bombers have reportedly been involved in trade talks with the Chicago Cubs about former NL MVP Cody Bellinger. Despite being a quality bat for the Cubs, the team has been openly shopping Bellinger this offseason.

That being said, according to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, the two teams have not progressed in trade talks, leaving New York with no option but to explore the free-agent market.

Once news broke that the Cubs and Yankees have reached a reported "stalemate," fans took to social media to share their feelings about the situation. Some fans are simply confused by what the front office is doing as the team has a clear need for improvement at first base.

"This has turned into a clown show by Brian Cashman," one fan posted online.

"No way the team that was offering Juan Soto $700M is saying that Cody bellingers contract is TOO MUCH for them. Good on Jed hoyer for not caving," another fan shared.

"They need to get someone!! Fast @Yankees," one more fan posted.

There are a number of first base options aside from Cody Bellinger, especially in free agency. Nightengale mentioned a number of intriguing names such as Christian Walker, Pete Alonso, Paul Goldschmidt and Carlos Santana as potential replacements. While the Yankees may need to look elsewhere other than Bellinger, some fans are less convinced that some of the options are good fits.

"Walker makes no sense, they would have to give up int money and also more draft capital . I don’t see that happening," one fan posted.

"Santana & Goldschmidt are done," another fan posted on social media.

"Trashman signed pitching and now he will cheap out on hitting," one more fan added.

Cody Bellinger's salary remains the key factor between a potential Yankees and Cubs trade

New York could use a versatile star such as Cody Bellinger thanks to his ability to play at both first base and in the outfield. That being said, Bellinger still has two years and $52,500,000 remaining on his current contract with the Cubs.

Even though Bellinger has a player option for 2026, given the $25 million deal he could earn, he would likely pick it up.

The Chicago Cubs have made it clear that they are looking to move off of Bellinger's massive contract, however, they will likely need to either eat some of his salary or take on a high-priced veteran such as Marcus Stroman to help facilitate a deal.

Despite the rumors of the potential trade, one of the teams may need to bend in order for the blockbuster trade to happen.