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10h ago

Cody Bellinger Expected to Opt Out as Yankees Weigh Re-Signing or Bigger Outfield Move

Analysts see New York weighing a new deal for the versatile slugger against a pursuit of a higher-end target.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 12: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees stands on the field during a pitching change against the Minnesota Twins at Yankee Stadium on August 12, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Multiple reports say Bellinger is likely to decline his $25 million 2026 season and enter free agency after a strong year with New York.
  • Bleacher Report’s projection, cited by Newsweek, has the Yankees trying to keep him unless they pivot to Kyle Tucker if he becomes available.
  • Bellinger entered Tuesday at .279/.333/.504 with 26 home runs and an .837 OPS, drawing praise for defensive flexibility and a .369 average versus left-handed pitching.
  • Free-agency forecasts range from another short-term pact to a four- or five-year deal approaching $150 million, with agent Scott Boras expected to test the market.
  • Potential suitors mentioned include the Mets, identified by Jon Heyman as a fit, while some predictions point to West Coast options and link the Yankees to Luis Arráez as an alternative bat.