The recent trade of Cody Bellinger to the New York Yankees has sparked conversations about potential clubhouse dynamics, fueled by the backstory of his wife, Chase Carter, and her previous relationship with Yankees slugger Giancarlo Stanton. While such personal connections are far from uncommon in professional sports, they inevitably invite speculation about how they might influence team chemistry.
Cody Bellinger Joins the Yankees
On Tuesday, the Yankees acquired Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for right-handed pitcher Cody Poteet and cash considerations. A two-time All-Star, former National League MVP, and World Series champion, Bellinger brings a stellar resume to the Bronx. Known for his power at the plate and defensive prowess, he is expected to bolster a Yankees team aiming to return to the World Series after their first appearance in 15 years.
However, it is not just Bellinger’s on-field skills that have drawn attention. His wife, Chase Carter, has a notable history with Giancarlo Stanton, which has led to some speculation about how their shared history might play out within the Yankees’ clubhouse.
A Look at Chase Carter’s Background
Carter, a 27-year-old Bahamian model, has an impressive career of her own. She gained prominence as a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model in 2018 and has worked with major brands such as Victoria’s Secret and Ralph Lauren. Carter married Cody Bellinger in December 2022, and the couple has since welcomed two daughters.
Before her relationship with Bellinger, Carter dated Stanton for roughly two years, from 2018 to 2019. During that time, she was seen attending Yankees games, including Game 3 of the 2019 American League Division Series, where she sat alongside Samantha Bracksieck, now the wife of Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge. By late 2019, however, Carter and Stanton had reportedly split, and she was linked to Bellinger in August 2020.
Potential for Awkwardness?
While the personal lives of athletes rarely impact professional performance, the connection between Carter, Bellinger, and Stanton has raised questions. Some observers wonder whether this history could lead to tension within the Yankees’ clubhouse. Others, however, believe that any potential awkwardness is being overblown.
Stanton, for his part, has previously stated that he doesn’t mind living the bachelor lifestyle, and there’s no public evidence suggesting that his relationship with Carter ended on bad terms. If anything, any lingering discomfort may be confined to family events or social gatherings, rather than spilling over into professional dynamics.
The Bigger Picture for the Yankees
For the Yankees, the focus remains on the 2025 season and their quest to claim another championship. After losing superstar Juan Soto to the Mets, the team is looking to Bellinger to play a key role in their offensive lineup. Despite the chatter about off-field dynamics, the Yankees’ success will ultimately hinge on their performance on the diamond.
Sports teams often navigate complex interpersonal relationships, and the Yankees are no exception. Whether Carter’s presence in the Yankees’ orbit becomes a storyline worth following or fades into irrelevance will largely depend on how Bellinger and Stanton handle the situation. As seasoned professionals, both players are likely to prioritize the team’s goals over any personal matters.
Conclusion
The Yankees’ acquisition of Cody Bellinger is a major move for a franchise hungry for success. While the history between Chase Carter and Giancarlo Stanton adds an intriguing subplot, its actual impact on the team remains to be seen. As the Yankees prepare for the upcoming season, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if Bellinger’s arrival can help propel the team to the championship—and if any off-field dynamics become part of the narrative along the way.
