As expected, New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger plans to opt out of his contract and become a free agent next month, a source told ESPN.
Bellinger, 30, has a player option worth $25 million for next season. After a strong season in his first year in pinstripes, he appears to be receiving widespread interest in free agency – which should lead to a lucrative multi-year contract.
The Yankees acquired Bellinger. from Chicago Cubs in December last year. For the Cubs, he was a loss of salary just days after they acquired Kyle Tucker.
For the Yankees, he was part of a quick turnaround from Juan Soto. In the end, the 2019 NL MVP ended up being their second-best player.
Hit from behind Aaron Judge For most of the season, Bellinger batted .272 with 29 home runs and an .813 OPS in 152 games in 2025. He was especially productive against left-handed pitching despite hitting left-handed, leading all left-handed hitters in on-base percentage (.415) and slugging percentage (.601) against lefties.
He was also one of the best defenders in the sport, with Bellinger accumulating seven strikeouts above average and eight defensive runs saved between three outfield positions and first base. He added 13 interceptions in 15 attempts. His 4.9 fWAR was tied Kyle Schwarber ranked 18th in the majors and second among the Yankees behind Judge.
Bellinger signed a three-year, $80 million deal with the Cubs (with an option to opt out after the first and second years) through the 2024 season. He rejected a qualifying offer from the Cubs earlier in the offseason.
Other Yankees expected to become free agents include an outfielder. Trent Grishamfirst baseman Paul Goldschmidtand pitchers Devin Williams And Luke Weaver.
