Yankees Outfielder Cody Bellinger - Wendell Cruz/Imagn Images
Cody Bellinger astonishingly shocked New York Yankees fans when he decided to opt out of his $25 million player option for 2026 to look elsewhere. This means Bellinger will, for now, test the free agent market while still open for a possible return to the Bronx.
The former MVP was one of the most stable batters on the team. Bellinger hit .272 .334 .480 with 25 doubles, 29 home runs, and 98 RBIs over 152 games played. He also played more than 40 games at each of the three outfield positions.
The bounce-back campaign of the left-handed outfielder reset his financial worth and lined him up as one of the best hitters in the much-anticipated MLB free agency cycle. He became a member of the Yankees after the Chicago Cubs traded him before 2025.
He immediately became a star in the middle of the New York Yankees lineup. The lefty thrived as a power hitter in Yankee Stadium, giving outfielder Aaron Judge some comfort, usually batting after him in the lineup.
Additionally, Bellinger was explosive on defense, too, playing both outfield and infield, including first base.
What’s Next?
Now that the opt-out is complete, there’s some relief. The move shifts approximately $20 million from the Yankees’ payroll, but places a high demand on general manager Brian Cashman to fill the position.
He needs to determine whether reuniting with Bellinger is in order or if he should pursue other players entering free agency and consider their options.
Other Teams Interested
Bellinger’s next deal is anticipated to go beyond $130 million. The Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, and Philadelphia Phillies are all keeping a close eye on his access. For Yankees fans, there’s a plus side and a negative side to Belli’s decision to opt out.
The options are either to play for the Yankees in 2026, remain with the club long term, or start on opening day 2026 with another team. But if the Yanks want to win, they must sign Belli right now.
The Yankees do have other players entering free agency, including center fielder Trent Grisham, first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, and utilityman Amed Rosario, who will generate openings on the team. By resigning Bellinger sooner rather than later, it will surely help their roster by filling at least one open spot.
Other Free Agent Choices
If the first door in Belli’s option closes, Cashman has the option to open door No. 2 for the club. The Yanks could pursue Chicago Cubs’ outfielder Kyler Tucker.
The 28-year-old is listed as the No. 1 player teams must grab during free agency. In 2025, “King Tuck” batted .266 with 22 home runs and 73 RBIs in 500 regular-season at-bats.
