The New York Yankees enter the 2025-26 offseason with a clear priority: re-signing Cody Bellinger. After a resurgent season in the Bronx, where he hit .272 with 29 home runs, 98 RBIs, and an .813 OPS across 152 games, Bellinger proved to be a versatile and indispensable piece of the lineup. His ability to play all three outfield positions and first base makes him a perfect fit for a roster that has struggled with consistency in recent years.
General Manager Brian Cashman has publicly stated that retaining Bellinger is a top priority, but payroll concerns loom large. With Trent Grisham already locked in on a $22 million qualifying offer, the Yankees must balance financial flexibility with the need to keep their outfield strong.
The Competition for Bellinger
The Yankees are far from alone in their pursuit. The Mets, Dodgers, and Phillies are all actively courting Bellinger. The Mets, fresh off signing Juan Soto last offseason, see Bellinger as another marquee addition to bolster their lineup. The Dodgers, his former team, remain interested in a reunion, while the Phillies are looking to add another left-handed bat to their already potent offense.
Other teams, including the Giants and Blue Jays, have been linked to Bellinger in various reports, making this one of the most competitive free agency battles of the winter.
What Happens If the Yankees Win or Lose
If the Yankees succeed in re-signing Bellinger, they would boast one of the most formidable outfields in baseball alongside Aaron Judge and Trent Grisham, with Jasson Domínguez waiting in the wings. Such a trio would give New York both power and defensive versatility, positioning them as serious contenders in 2026.
However, if Bellinger signs elsewhere, the Yankees have contingency plans. Kyle Tucker of the Astros has emerged as a potential target, though his price tag could exceed $400 million. Internally, prospects like Spencer Jones and Jasson Domínguez are viewed as “Plan B” options to fill the outfield gap. Additionally, reports suggest the Yankees could pivot to international talent, including Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai, to strengthen other areas of the roster.
Conclusion
The Yankees’ pursuit of Cody Bellinger is shaping up as one of the defining storylines of the offseason. If they land him, the Bronx Bombers will have their outfield cornerstone secured. If not, the front office must pivot quickly to Tucker, Domínguez, or Jones to avoid another disappointing winter. Either way, the Yankees’ decisions in the coming weeks will set the tone for their quest to end a World Series drought that has lasted since 2009.
