NEW YORK, NY — Former MVP Cody Bellinger has formally declined his $25 million player option for 2026 with the New York Yankees and is officially testing the open market, seeking the long-term, nine-figure contract that eluded him two years ago. After a strong 2025 season with the Yankees, projections indicate Bellinger is firmly positioned to secure a massive deal worth roughly $180–$190 million over six years.
The Contract Projections
Bellinger, who turns 31 before the 2026 season ends, has leveraged his dual versatility (Center Field/First Base) and his revitalized offensive production to command a top-tier contract:
| Source | Predicted Years | Predicted Total Value | Predicted AAV |
| Spotrac/TSN Consensus | 6 years | $165M – $185M | $27.5M – $30.8M |
| MLB Trade Rumors | 5 years | $140 million | $28.0 million |
| Newsweek/The Athletic | 7 years | $182M – $200M | $26M – $28.5M |
The general consensus is a six-year contract worth around $185 million, reflecting the security derived from his positional flexibility—his ability to transition to first base or a corner outfield spot as he ages gives him greater value than most free agents.
The Resurgence That Paid Off
Bellinger’s decision to opt out was a “no-brainer” after he delivered his best overall season since his 2019 MVP campaign:
- 2025 Stats (with Yankees): .272 BA, 29 Home Runs, 98 RBI, and an impressive 4.9 FanGraphs WAR.
- Skill Set: His high floor is based on being a well-rounded player with above-average baserunning and defensive value. His left-handed swing is also perfectly suited for the short porch in right field at Yankee Stadium, a factor the Yankees are heavily considering in their bid to re-sign him.
The Crowded Bidding War
The market for Bellinger is now officially crowded, putting pressure on his former (Cubs) and most recent (Yankees) teams:
- New York Yankees: Re-signing Bellinger is viewed as one of their top priorities this offseason, as he provides crucial defensive flexibility and a left-handed presence the lineup needs.
- New York Mets: Expected to be “heavily in on” Bellinger to fill their center field or first base void, particularly if Pete Alonso departs.
- Detroit Tigers: The Tigers are another strong contender, rumored to have a high interest in adding a premium outfielder.
- Los Angeles Dodgers: A sentimental and strategic reunion is possible, as Bellinger could fill a defensive utility role for the back-to-back champions.
Bellinger’s long-term commitment will likely define the entire offseason for several contending clubs, making him the definitive main character of this winter’s free-agent outfield market.
The Yankees want to bring back Bellinger but face stiff competition. Would you like to check the latest news on the Yankees’ pursuit of Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai, their other major international target this offseason?
