Cody Bellinger Opts Out of Contract with Yankees

Bellinger reiterated that he would be interested in staying a Yankee, it will need to be on a new deal

Credit: MLB.Com

THE BRONX, NY — Outfielder and first baseman Cody Bellinger has opted out of his contract with the Yankees, according to multiple reports.

Bellinger, 30, delivered one of the club’s most well-rounded performances in 2025 after a sluggish start. He finished with a strong offensive campaign and remained a defensive asset, flashing Gold Glove-caliber range in the outfield and making several game-saving catches.

Bellinger also emerged as a veteran leader in the clubhouse, helping multiple younger players, like Jasson Domínguez, adapt to live in the big leagues. Bellinger’s veteran presence and professionalism is something that every team needs to usher young players through the transition from the minors.

The 2019 National League MVP originally signed a one-year deal with opt-outs with the Chicago Cubs before the 2024 season. Chicago traded him to New York in December 2024 as part of the Yankees’ contingency plan after losing superstar Juan Soto in free agency.

Given his production on both sides of the ball, Bellinger is expected to be one of the Yankees’ top priorities this offseason. Reports indicate there is mutual interest in a reunion, though Bellinger is also likely to draw significant attention on the open market.

Cody Bellinger Plans to Opt Out of Contract with Yankees was originally published in FanZone Report on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.