Yankees Face Potential Loss of Cody Bellinger to NL Contender
The New York Yankees face a critical decision regarding Cody Bellinger as he approaches free agency. Recent reports suggest that Bellinger, the 2019 National League MVP, is likely to opt out of his three-year, $80 million contract following the World Series. This decision could lead to heightened interest from various teams, including the Yankees and possibly the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Cody Bellinger’s Contract Situation
Bellinger is expected to decline a $25 million option for the 2026 season. This move opens pandora’s box for his future in Major League Baseball (MLB). The Yankees are reportedly keen on retaining him. According to Jon Heyman from the New York Post, Bellinger may want to return to New York, but negotiations may take time.
Potential Competition for Bellinger
As the offseason approaches, several teams are eyeing Bellinger’s services:
- The Los Angeles Dodgers, where Bellinger once enjoyed success.
- The Kansas City Royals, who are looking for a strong hitter.
- Announced interest from teams like the New York Mets, Houston Astros, and San Diego Padres.
Heyman also noted that Bellinger may be a more attractive option than other free agents like Kyle Tucker, due to his versatility and lower anticipated contract cost. Bellinger’s ability to play both center field and first base adds to his value, especially since he won’t come with a qualifying offer that could complicate negotiations.
Performance Highlights
During his time with the Yankees, Bellinger achieved impressive statistics. In the 2025 season, he hit 29 home runs, recorded 98 RBIs, and posted a 5.0 Wins Above Replacement (WAR). These figures mark his best performance since his MVP year with the Dodgers.
| Statistic | 2025 Results |
|---|---|
| Home Runs | 29 |
| RBIs | 98 |
| WAR | 5.0 |
Forecast for Free Agency
Experts predict that Bellinger could command a contract exceeding six years and $168 million on the open market. Joel Sherman, also from the New York Post, believes the Yankees will actively pursue Bellinger, reflecting their usual aggressive approach to sign top talent.
As the World Series concludes, all eyes will be on Bellinger to see which team successfully secures his talents for the upcoming season.
