Once the World Series is over, the Major League Baseball free agent market is already heating up ahead of the 2026 season. The first moves were made official on Monday, just hours after the Dodgers’ coronation in a thrilling final against the Blue Jays.
As expected, among the first to announce his departure to the market is outfielder Cody Bellinger, who in 2025 was one of the most important figures for the New York Yankees, with 29 home runs, 98 RBIs and an OPS of .813.
The perfect squire for Aaron Judge
After a somewhat slow start, the outfielder became the perfect squire for Aaron Judge in the Yankees’ lineup, as well as contributing a lot defensively, both in left and center field.
Bellinger arrived in the Bronx last winter shortly after Juan Soto’s deal with the Mets was confirmed. The left-hander landed in New York from the Chicago Cubs, who received pitcher Cody Poteet in the trade.
The move was key for Aaron Boone’s team, who needed a left-handed bat and a reliable outfielder to replace Soto. And that’s exactly what they got from Bellinger, who quickly established himself as one of the leaders in the clubhouse, although he couldn’t contribute much in the decisive Division Series against the Blue Jays.
Bellinger had one year left on the contract he signed in 2024 with the Cubs, but he had an option to opt out in 2026, which he has finally exercised. This was a foregone conclusion that opens the door to free agency at the age of 30 with a proven track record.
In search of 100 million
His performance in 2025 will be his best calling card in the market, where he is expected to land a multi-year contract, probably in nine figures. As a Scott Boras client, whoever wants him will surely have to shell out more than $100 million and not all teams can afford those amounts.
The Yankees are among his potential destinations, although it remains to be seen what decisions Brian Cashman and the New York management will make. Bellinger will surely be in the conversation for a new signing in the Bronx, but the team is looking at other options such as Kyle Tucker.
Other teams that could fight for Bellinger are the Mets and Tigers, who need to add versatile players with offensive ability, speed and defensive security. The lefty fits that profile and will surely not be short of offers.
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