With the offseason heating up and rumors swirling, the New York Yankees are no longer the only suitors for Cody Bellinger. According to recent reports, teams including the Philadelphia Phillies are making serious moves for the free-agent slugger.
And that could leave the Bronx club watching a once-promising pursuit drift away. The Phillies' priority has been to re-sign Kyle Schwarber, but, like many teams, Bellinger is a very attractive pivot.
The Yankees entered this offseason aiming to re-sign Bellinger, but insiders say payroll limits and tough competition might price them out. Now, as the Winter Meetings begin Monday, the Phillies may have the path cleared to pounce. They can offer Bellinger the playing time, outfield/DH flexibility, and offensive role that could make this one of the sharpest pivots in the offseason so far.
Bellinger is coming off a rebound season with 29 home runs and a.813 OPS in 2025. That production can slot easily behind the club’s stars and lengthen the lineup at a time when the Phillies want stability and depth.
Unlike some slugging alternatives, Bellinger carries value beyond his bat. With his defensive versatility, he could cover corner outfield or first base when needed. Also, he doesn’t have a qualifying-offer tag — meaning Philadelphia avoids draft-pick and luxury-tax penalties other clubs face when signing a QO player.
It might be smarter, especially for a team balancing immediate contention with long-term contracts and flexibility.
If the Yankees struggle to make their numbers work, and reports suggest they might, then Philadelphia is in a position to swoop. The Winter Meetings offer a deadline-style backdrop. Bellinger isn’t going to wait forever. The Phillies could wrap up a deal, shock the market, and quietly disrupt New York’s plans.
For what started as grabbing a power bat, this offseason may end up being about positioning. And for the Phillies, it’s shaping up as a pivot that could reframe their entire 2026 roster.
