Former MLB general manager Jim Duquette believes Cody Bellinger’s free agency ends right where it began, back with the New York Yankees. On MLB Network Radio show Thursday morning, Duquette projected a six-year deal “somewhere close to $200 million” for the versatile left-handed slugger and said his positional flexibility and defense make him one of the most valuable players on the market.
“His positional versatility, plus defense kind of fits as well as the offense,” Duquette said. “I think he’s a really valuable player… I think he’s going back.”
Bellinger, 29, remains one of baseball’s most intriguing free agents.
After injuries derailed his Los Angeles Dodgers career, he stalled out with the Chicago Cubs and then rebuilt his stock with the Yankees by posting a.274/.338/.488 slash line, 28 home runs, 91 RBI and eight outs above average in 2025.
His ability to play both center field and first base gives clubs roster flexibility that few power hitters provide.
While Duquette sees a reunion with the Yankees. Several contenders loom.
The Los Angeles Dodgers, Toronto Blue Jays, and New York Mets have all been linked to Bellinger this winter, each with a different motive.
The Dodgers know his ceiling and have payroll room to spend after resetting their luxury tax – and would love to run up the cost for the Yankees. The Blue Jays, who need left-handed pop and lineup stability, have inquired but face the same financial hurdles that pushed them out last winter. The Mets, meanwhile, are seeking a middle-of-the-order bat to complement Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor after their 2025 lineup finished middle of the pack in OPS.
A six-year, $200 million deal would place Bellinger near Freddie Freeman and Brandon Nimmo territory, a price tag that reflects both his offensive ceiling and defensive value. If the Cubs match that kind of number, they’ll lock up a cornerstone through his prime seasons. If not, the bidding may quickly turn into a three-team race between L.A., Toronto and Queens.
Either way, Duquette’s prediction underscores what front offices already know — Cody Bellinger isn’t just one of the best bats available, he’s a defensive asset whose next deal could reshape a contender’s winter.
