The New York Yankees added former MVP Cody Bellinger to the roster this offseason with the idea that he can regain his form in a more friendly ballpark.
Despite coming off a down season with the Chicago Cubs, Bellinger was a major part of the immediate pivot plan for the Yankees after they watched Juan Soto sign a historic $765 million deal with the New York Mets this offseason.
Bellinger’s swing is tailor-made for Yankee Stadium, and his contract gives the 29-year-old plenty of motivation to bounce back in 2025.
Though it remains to be seen what will happen, Brendan Kuty of The Athletic made a prediction that Bellinger will exercise the opt-out clause in his contract following the 2025 season.
“Expect a big year from Bellinger, who knows the short porch is calling his name and who will be motivated to do better than the $25 million remaining on his deal for next season,” Kuty wrote.
With Bellinger predicted to opt out of his contract, which would pay him $22.5 million for the 2026 season, Kuty also predicted the Yankees will make a strong run at Chicago Cubs superstar Kyle Tucker.
Even at the mark of $22.5 million, it would rank inside the top 10 in terms of average annual value among MLB outfielders, per Spotrac.
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The Yankees need Bellinger to have a strong campaign even if it comes at the risk of potentially losing him next offseason. Though Aaron Judge is coming off his second MVP award, Bellinger will be the one to provide the protection.
If he comes through with a bounce-back campaign, there’s a chance it will be his only one in pinstripes.
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