The New York Yankees found great success with Cody Bellinger, whose versatility has been a huge asset to the Bronx Bombers.
But despite the familial connections and goodwill with the team, the Yankees may face a challenge in bringing back the star outfielder/first baseman. MLB.com insider Bryan Hoch predicts that there will be some fierce competition to land him, with the Yankees likely needing to match any big offers from potential suitors.
Grim Outlook for Yankees to Keep Cody Bellinger
As Hoch noted, Bellinger has proven throughout his career that he can thrive wherever he’s planted, including some of the MLB’s biggest and most pressure-packed markets.
“Bellinger has already proven he can thrive in major markets,” Hoch wrote “He succeeded in Los Angeles, rebuilt himself in Chicago and blended seamlessly into New York. That track record creates confidence for any team pursuing him.”
That means Bellinger could be a hot commodity in free agency, with Bellinger not keen to give a hometown discount to the Yankees, Hoch suggested.
“The Yankees say they have limits, and if a club steps up with more years or greater financial commitment, it would not be a surprise to see him move on,” Hoch wrote. “Scott Boras rarely moves quickly, and this negotiation has all the signs of one that stretches into December while multiple teams jockey for position. The Yankees also have needs in other areas, and they figure to have plenty of competition for a player with left-handed pop and a plus defender who can handle center field. It might take the highest bid to bring Bellinger back.”
After a down year in 2024, Bellinger came out strong after joining the Yankees last offseason. He had a 5.1 bWAR, the second-highest mark of his career, and hit a .272/.334/.480 slash line with an .813 OPS.
Even though Bellinger hasn’t made an All-Star game since his MVP season in 2019, his performance in 2025 proved that he can be a major piece on any World Series contending team.
Cody Bellinger’s Big Price Tag
If the Yankees have to match the highest bid in order to keep Bellinger, it could become a costly endeavor. ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel predicted that he would net a giant contract on the open market, suggesting he will get a six-year deal worth $165 million.
McDaniel added that Bellinger’s proven versatility will warrant the big contract.
“Bellinger is an average defensive center fielder who is above average in a corner-outfield spot and solid at first base, as well. His wide base of skills and versatility give him a high floor, and the adjustability of changing his offensive approach in the big leagues suggests he’ll age well,” McDaniel wrote.
Bellinger will be 30 on opening day next season, meaning he will bring long-term value to whatever team signs his checks next year, McDaniel added.
“There aren’t many potential core position players in this class, but Bellinger still being young for a free agent while fitting well at four positions should give him a robust market,” the ESPN insider wrote. “I see five or six years here, and I think he’ll clear $150 million.”
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