After months of speculation, Cody Bellinger has decided where he'll play baseball in 2026.
Bellinger is coming off a season with the New York Yankees where he had a .272 average with 29 homers and 89 RBIs. The former National League MVP embraced all the pressure that comes with wearing pinstripes, but obviously his agent wanted to maximize his potential in free agency. That led to tense negotiations with the Yankees.
The Star-Ledger's Bob Klapisch reported earlier this month that New York wouldn't get involved in a bidding war for Bellinger.
"Yankees have made an internal decision not to engage in a bidding war for Cody Bellinger if Mets or anyone else swoops in with a blow-away offer," Klapisch said. "Yankees believe they've made a fair proposal - five years, $160 million, two opt-outs. They're prepared to let Bellinger walk."
Although there were rumblings about Bellinger potentially leaving the Bronx, he's agreed to terms on a deal with the Yankees.
According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, the Yankees are signing Bellinger to a five-year, $162.5 million contract that includes opt-outs after the second and third season. His deal includes a $20 million signing bonus and a no-trade clause.
© Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images.
Is this the right move for New York?
Judging by the initial reactions online, a good portion of the fan base is glad Bellinger is returning for the 2026 season. Some fans believe this deal will age poorly though.
"It's about time," a Yankees fan said in response to the news.
"I like this deal, this is as high as it would go," a second fan wrote.
"Better than Kyle Tucker and making how much less now? Idc, I'm just happy he's back and didn't pull a Soto," a third fan argued.
"Paying $162.5 million to Bellinger and $22 million to Grisham just to run back last years average team," another fan commented.
"Would’ve much rather have given Dominguez and Jones more of a chance but I’d assume one if not both are traded," another Yankees fan said.
At the end of the day, the Yankees couldn't afford to lose Bellinger in free agency. He's a two-time All-Star capable of handling the bright lights in New York.
The Yankees will begin their 2026 season on March 25 against the San Francisco Giants.