Overview
- Cody Bellinger opted out of his Yankees deal and entered free agency after a 2025 season with a .272 average, 29 home runs, 98 RBIs and an .813 OPS, plus strong defensive metrics.
- General manager Brian Cashman said the club would love to have Bellinger back, and multiple reports describe retaining him as a top offseason priority.
- Rival interest is building, with the Mets viewed as a fit per Jon Heyman’s reporting and the Dodgers considered a possible suitor given his history in Los Angeles and fan support for a reunion.
- Industry estimates project a multi-year agreement in roughly the $180–183 million range for the Scott Boras–represented outfielder and first baseman.
- The decision intersects with other Yankees moves, as Trent Grisham’s qualifying offer remains in play, Aaron Boone plans Jasson Domínguez in left field, and analysts warn that losing Bellinger would complicate roster construction.