UPDATE: The New York Yankees are prioritizing the retention of outfielder Cody Bellinger as the winter free agency period approaches. General Manager Brian Cashman confirmed this keen interest during a video call from the annual general manager meetings in Las Vegas, stating, “We’re very interested in bringing him back.” This announcement comes as Bellinger prepares to hit the free agent market, where he is expected to attract significant attention.
The Yankees, who won 94 games last season but fell short in the postseason, are looking to bolster their roster. With the Toronto Blue Jays eliminating them from the playoffs, the urgency to enhance their lineup is palpable. Bellinger, who excelled in his first season with the Yankees, is seen as a key piece in achieving that goal.
Bellinger, 30, is coming off a standout year where he batted .272 with 29 home runs and an .813 OPS over 152 games. His performance against left-handed pitching was particularly impressive, leading all left-handed hitters with a .415 on-base percentage and a .601 slugging percentage. Moreover, his defensive metrics show he was a reliable player in the outfield, further solidifying his value.
Cashman indicated that the Yankees are ready to engage in negotiations, although Bellinger will not command the same record-setting contract as Juan Soto, who recently signed for $440 million. ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel predicts Bellinger could sign a six-year deal worth $165 million, making him one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason.
The Yankees initially acquired Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs last December, sending right-hander Cody Poteet and $5 million to offset Bellinger’s salary. Bellinger’s acquisition was part of a strategic pivot after Soto opted for the New York Mets. After a successful season, Bellinger opted out of the final year of his contract, leaving a $25 million salary on the table for 2026.
“I just think the whole dynamic suited them and suited him,” said Bellinger’s agent, Scott Boras. “It was really an ideal fit. It was really a well-made ride for everybody.”
As the Yankees consider their options, they also face decisions regarding other outfielders. Trent Grisham, another contributor, has until November 18 to accept a one-year qualifying offer worth $22.025 million. Cashman confirmed that Grisham accepting the offer would not hinder efforts to retain Bellinger, as they could pursue both players should Grisham choose to enter free agency.
For now, Bellinger remains a top priority for the Yankees. Cashman emphasized, “We’d be better served if we could retain him. But if not, then we’ll have to look at alternatives.” The urgency surrounding Bellinger’s potential return illustrates the Yankees’ commitment to enhancing their roster and preparing for a more successful season ahead.
As negotiations heat up, fans will be closely watching how this situation unfolds. The Yankees are poised to make significant moves in the coming weeks, making Bellinger’s future with the team a focal point of the offseason.
