The New York Yankees have a big decision to make regarding outfielder Cody Bellinger. After declining his player option for 2026, Bellinger is now headed for free agency this offseason.
Traded to the Yankees from the Chicago Cubs last offseason, Bellinger had an immediate impact with the Yankees, slashing .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs. After a strong season in the Bronx, Bellinger could be headed towards a big payday in free agency.
Bellinger predicted to return to the Yankees
Zach Pressnell of Sports Illustrated expects Bellinger to be back in pinstripes for 2026, however on a much more lucrative deal.
“The Yankees need to do everything in their power to re-sign Bellinger, but he's likely headed for at least $100 million,” Pressnell said. “The Yankees could look to give him a deal worth somewhere between $125 million and $175 million which would keep him in the Bronx for the foreseeable future.”
While Bellinger established himself as a key piece of the Yankees this season, the main concern with handing him a long-term deal is his age. Bellinger is currently 30-years-old, and despite a recent career turnaround over the last couple of seasons, concerns of a decline could shy the Yankees away.
Nonetheless, the Yankees will surely have Bellinger near the top of their list of priorities for this offseason after a strong season with the Yankees in 2025.