The New York Yankees are poised to make significant decisions in the coming months concerning outfielder Cody Bellinger’s future, who currently holds a $25 million player option for the 2026 season. However, industry analysts widely expect Bellinger to decline this option, signaling his pursuit of a longer-term agreement with higher total earnings, even if the average annual value (AAV) is below $25 million.
According to Steve Adams of MLB Trade Rumors, Bellinger could secure a contract exceeding $100 million over a six-year span. This prospect presents the Yankees with a challenging choice, especially as they integrate rising young players into their roster while contemplating Bellinger’s place in their long-term strategy.
The existing $25 million player option for 2026 comes with a $5 million buyout if declined, making the effective financial decision less substantial. Despite the apparent value, Bellinger’s age and free agency status suggest he may seek alternative contracts. Adams explains,
“Bellinger would only be 35 at the completion of a five-year deal or 36 after a six-year pact. An annual salary north of $20MM for a 30-year-old corner outfielder who’s posted a .283/.337/.481 slash in nearly 1600 plate appearances since 2023 — particularly one who can capably handle center field or first base — should be attainable, which means Bellinger has a real chance to sign for more than $100MM on the open market this time around,”
—Steve Adams, MLB Trade Rumors
Widespread Interest Anticipated Should Bellinger Enter Free Agency
If the Yankees decide not to retain Cody Bellinger, several teams across Major League Baseball are expected to compete aggressively for his services. The San Francisco Giants, who have sought impactful players in recent years, appear particularly interested. After acquiring Rafael Devers in a high-profile trade, the Giants could pursue Bellinger to further bolster their lineup.
Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report recently projected Bellinger might accept a shorter contract with the Giants, estimating a deal in the range of three years. Miller commented,
“Bellinger has a $25M player option for 2026, but he has re-harnessed his slugging well enough that he’ll probably decline it and set his sights upon another 3/$80M or better type of deal,”
—Kerry Miller, Bleacher Report
He further predicted,
“(Prediction: Bellinger signs a three-year or four-year deal with the Giants.)”
—Kerry Miller, Bleacher Report
Factors Suggesting the Yankees May Allow Bellinger to Depart
Not all analysts believe the Yankees will offer Bellinger a lucrative extension. Some suggest the team is prepared to let him walk, regardless of the contract value, as they consider the development of younger talent within their system.
Aaliyan Mohammed of Newsweek pointed to recent organizational moves, such as the Yankees’ decision to retain Spencer Jones rather than trade him, which could hint at the team‘s forward-looking plans. Jones could soon feature as an outfielder, shaping the composition of the team’s roster going forward.
Mohammed explained,
“That decision could speak volumes about the Yankees’ plans with Cody Bellinger. Aaron Judge figures to return to the outfield as soon as he can throw again and will man the position for years to come. Jasson Domínguez seems to be regarded highly as a part of the team’s future. As for the third outfield spot, the future is less clear right now,”
—Aaliyan Mohammed, Newsweek
Long-Term Implications for the Yankees and Bellinger’s Career
The Yankees face a complex balancing act as they weigh retaining an established player like Bellinger against the potential impact of integrating promising young talent such as Jones and Domínguez. Bellinger’s ability to perform multiple defensive roles, combined with his career offensive numbers, make him a valuable asset; nevertheless, the team’s direction could prioritize flexibility and youth.
For Bellinger, entering free agency with strong recent performance puts him in a position to demand substantial offers exceeding $100 million across multiple years. Whether with the Yankees or another franchise, the decisions made in the upcoming months will significantly influence both his career path and the Yankees’ roster configuration.