Overview
- He declined a $25 million player option for 2026 in favor of a $5 million buyout, with the Cubs covering $2.5 million of that amount.
- Bellinger said he would "absolutely" consider a return to the Bronx after what he called an unbelievable experience in pinstripes.
- General manager Brian Cashman labeled Bellinger an impact player and expressed interest in keeping him under a new deal.
- After batting .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs in 152 games, he showcased value with appearances at all three outfield spots and first base.
- He is ineligible for a qualifying offer, and multiple teams are reported to be monitoring his market, with some projections suggesting offers could exceed $130 million.