Cody Bellinger, who won a World Series and earned MVP honors with the Los Angeles Dodgers, is now focused on bringing championship success to the New York Yankees. As the Yankees prepare to visit Dodger Stadium this weekend, Bellinger’s father, Clay, emphasized the importance of his son‘s quest to win a title wearing the iconic pinstripes. This ambition reflects a deeper family connection to New York’s rich baseball history and legacy.
Bellinger Family’s Deep Connection to Yankees Championships
Clay Bellinger, who played on the Yankees’ championship teams in 1999 and 2000, shared in a recent TMZ Sports interview how significant it would be for Cody to win a World Series as a Yankee. For the younger Bellinger, this achievement would carry a personal and family meaning beyond his previous success with the Dodgers.
Cody loved every minute of his time with the Dodgers — winning a World Series and MVP, that’s spectacular,
Clay said.
But for him to do that as a Yankee, especially after being on the floats as a kid during our ’99 and 2000 championships, it’s going to be something really special. Way more meaningful for him and all of us.
—Clay Bellinger, former Yankees player
The Bellinger family epitomizes what winning means in New York baseball culture. Clay reflected on the unique experience of both participating in those celebrated championships and now watching his son compete at Yankee Stadium.
That experience, walking the parade route down the Canyon of Echoes as a kid, and now playing in that same stadium, it’s full circle,
he said. —Clay Bellinger, former Yankees player
Cody Bellinger’s Impact on the Yankees’ Season
This past offseason, the Yankees traded for Cody Bellinger as part of their efforts to recover from losing star outfielder Juan Soto to free agency. Bellinger has been an integral contributor, especially as the season has progressed. Over the first 50 games, he recorded a .258 batting average with eight home runs, 32 RBIs, and four stolen bases, maintaining an OPS of .786.
After a challenging start, which even included an unusual adverse reaction to chicken wings, Cody has significantly improved in recent weeks. His batting average over the past 15 games has risen to .328, complemented by an impressive .591 slugging percentage. This turnaround has added momentum to the Yankees’ push for playoff contention.
Family Moments and Upcoming Celebrations at Yankee Stadium
The 2024 season has been particularly meaningful for the Bellingers, with Clay anticipating a special moment during Old Timers Day at Yankee Stadium later this summer. He expressed excitement about capturing photos of father and son together on the historic field, symbolizing their shared baseball journey.
Clay’s participation in the event highlights how Cody Bellinger’s pursuit of Yankees championship glory intertwines personal history with the club’s storied past. As Cody continues to chase success, the family’s bond with New York baseball remains a compelling narrative in this pivotal season.