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6d ago

Yankees Seen as Front-Runners to Keep Cody Bellinger as Opt-Out Looms

A resurgent 2025 has elevated his price, drawing interest from the Mets, Astros and Phillies.

NEW YORK, NY - AUGUST 11: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees hits a solo home run during the game against the Minnesota Twins at Yankee Stadium on August 11, 2025 in New York, New York.
TAMPA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 19: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees runs the bases after hitting a home run in the first inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at George M. Steinbrenner Field on August 19, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.
TAMPA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 19: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees celebrates with teammates in the dugout after hitting a home run in the first inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at George M. Steinbrenner Field on August 19, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.
NEW YORK, NY - AUGUST 13: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees celebrates with teammates after hitting a solo home run during the game against the Minnesota Twins at Yankee Stadium on August 13, 2025 in New York, New York. (Photo by New York Yankees/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Cody Bellinger is in year two of a three-year, $80 million deal that includes a player option for 2026, and multiple reports expect him to decline the final $25 million season to test free agency.
  • Jon Heyman reports the Yankees have the inside track to re-sign Bellinger, and Mark Feinsand lists New York among the strongest suitors if he opts out.
  • Potential bidders cited by outlets include the Mets, Astros and Phillies, with Philadelphia discussed as a contingency if Kyle Schwarber departs.
  • Bellinger’s 2025 line cited in reports—24 home runs, 75 RBIs and an .823 OPS in 116 games—has him tracking toward roughly a 4-WAR season and a richer market.
  • Spotrac projects his next contract at six years and $182 million, while local commentary urges the Yankees to prioritize an extension over pursuing pricier alternatives such as Kyle Tucker.