Yankees’ Cody Bellinger Opts Out Of $25 Million Deal, Becomes Free Agent
Outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger will opt out of his 2026 player option with the New York Yankees and become a free agent. Bellinger had a player’s option for one year at $25 million and will receive a $5 million buyout. The former NL MVP had an excellent season with the Yankees and was a vital cog in the team’s run to the playoffs.
Cody Bellinger Open To Returning To Yplayoffs
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The Yankee Report on X (Twitter) was one of numerous sources reporting the opt-out late this week. Bellinger remains open to returning to the Yankees. He fit in well in New York and generally seemed well-regarded within the organization. In an interview after the team was eliminated in the divisional round of the playoffs by the Toronto Blue Jays, Bellinger had nothing but good things to say about the Yankees (via Yankees Video on X).
Cody Bellinger says he'd welcome a return to the Yankees if he opts out of his contract:
"I had an unbelievable time putting on this uniform. Yankee Stadium, the fans, the organization, the culture that these guys have created in this locker room. It's special." pic.twitter.com/Ov93n3eGjF
— Yankees Videos (@snyyankees) October 9, 2025
Cody Bellinger Would Be A Huge Loss For The Yankees
If the Yankees are unable to re-sign Bellinger, it would be a major blow for the team. Bellinger played exceptional defense at all three outfield positions and first base and was a major source of offense. The veteran hit .272 with 29 home runs, 98 RBI, 89 runs scored and 13 stolen bases in 2025 and was worth five wins above replacement. He also had the lowest strikeout percentage of his career at 13.7%. Bellinger’s swing is perfect for the short porch in right field in Yankee Stadium. With center fielder Trent Grisham also a free agent this winter, signing Bellinger, a former Gold Glove winner, should rank high on the Yankees‘ list of priorities.
Bellinger turned thirty in July and would seem to have several more years left in his prime. For his career, he has slashed .261/.334/.483 with 225 homers, 695 RBI and 104 steals. Bellinger won the National League MVP in 2019 with the Dodgers, when he hit .305 with 47 home runs, 115 RBI, 121 runs scored, 15 steals and 95 walks. He had an 8.7 WAR and won the Silver Slugger and the Gold Glove in right field that season. Injuries plagued him the next three seasons, but he began a resurgence after signing with the Chicago Cubs in 2023. The Cubs traded Bellinger to the Yankees for Cody Poteet before the 2025 season.
