BREAKING: New reports confirm that New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger is set to opt out of his $25 million contract, making him a free agent next month. This decision comes after a stellar rebound season, leaving fans and analysts buzzing about his potential market value.
Bellinger, who turned 30 this year, has quickly established himself as a key player for the Yankees since joining from the Chicago Cubs last December. His impressive performance, including a .272 batting average, 29 home runs, and an .813 OPS over 152 games in the 2025 season, has garnered significant attention.
His ability to excel against left-handed pitching has been particularly noteworthy. Bellinger led all left-handed batters in on-base percentage (.415) and slugging percentage (.601) against lefties, showcasing his offensive prowess. This success, paired with his defensive skills—amassing seven Outs Above Average and eight Defensive Runs Saved—positions him as one of the most coveted players in the upcoming free agency.
With a 4.9 fWAR that ranks among the top players in the major leagues, Bellinger is expected to attract considerable interest and potentially land a lucrative multi-year contract. His previous contract with the Cubs, a three-year deal worth $80 million with opt-outs, reflects his high market value, especially after he declined their qualifying offer prior to this decision.
This news comes at a pivotal moment for the Yankees, who are also facing potential departures from other key players, including outfielder Trent Grisham, first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, and relievers Devin Williams and Luke Weaver. As the Yankees aim to reshape their roster, Bellinger’s exit could mark a significant shift in the team’s strategy heading into the offseason.
Fans and analysts alike are now closely monitoring the situation as the Yankees prepare for a busy free agency period. What remains to be seen is how this decision will influence the team’s future, particularly in building around star player Aaron Judge.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Bellinger’s next move could reshape the dynamics of the upcoming MLB season.
