Phillies predicted to sign $80M MVP, World Series champion to replace Harrison Bader

Hunter Cookston

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Phillies predicted to sign $80M MVP, World Series champion to replace Harrison Bader image

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While Kyle Tucker remains the most attractive name among outfielders this offseason, Cody Bellinger isn’t far behind. Bellinger is a former MVP and World Series champion, and best of all, he can play virtually any position. After the season ended for the Yankees, it was reported that he was likely to opt out of his contract.

“As expected, New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger plans to opt out of his contract and become a free agent next month, a source told ESPN. Bellinger, 30, has a $25 million player option for next season. After a rebound season in his first year in pinstripes, he presumably will receive widespread interest in free agency -- it should yield a lucrative multi-year contract,” ESPN’s Jorge Castillo wrote.

Once the World Series concluded and the offseason began, it was announced that he officially opted out.

“Cody Bellinger has opted out,” MLB Network insider Jon Heyman wrote.

Some teams to watch during free agency are, of course, the New York Yankees and the New York Mets. However, SI’s Will Laws and Nick Selbe believe the Philadelphia Phillies could emerge as the winner of the Bellinger sweepstakes.

“After being traded to New York in what was essentially a salary dump for the Cubs, Bellinger swatted 29 home runs—his most since hitting 47 in his MVP campaign in 2019—to go along with a career-best 13.7% strikeout rate. Add in plus outfield defense in the corners and capable coverage in center field, and the decision to opt out of his contract was an easy one. Bellinger is clearly one of the premier bats available this winter—not too bad for a guy who was non-tendered by the Dodgers just three years ago,” Laws and Selbe wrote.

Bellinger would primarily play center field but could also fill in for Bryce Harper, allowing Harper to DH at times and rest his legs. He would be a great addition to any roster, bringing both talent and experience.

Bellinger continues to produce at a very high level and could help the Phillies get over the hump after falling short of a World Series. Landing him would be a major boost for Philadelphia.

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Staff Writer