Overview

• ESPN reported Bellinger will opt out after the World Series, turning down a $25 million player option and triggering a $5 million buyout, half covered by the Cubs.
• In his first Yankees season he hit .272 with 29 home runs, 98 RBIs and 13 steals over 152 games while excelling defensively across all three outfield spots and first base.
• Bellinger told reporters he loved playing in New York and would welcome a return under a new contract.
• Having previously received a qualifying offer, he cannot be offered another, and teams signing him will not lose draft picks, which could widen his market.
• The Yankees are expected to pursue a new deal as multiple teams, including the Mets per MLB.com, eye Bellinger, with New York also weighing decisions on pending free agents like Trent Grisham and Paul Goldschmidt.