Cody Bellinger has been a key piece for the New York Yankees this season, hitting 24 home runs, 75 RBIs and an .823 OPS in 116 games.
However, despite his consistent performance and impact on both offense and defense, his release clause at the end of the season puts his stay in the Bronx in doubt.
The Yankees are also not having the best time of the season, as they are currently in third place in the American League East, two games behind the Red Sox, so they are facing difficulties on several fronts.
The Bronx has found in Bellinger a versatile player with power and Gold Glove defensive ability, but keeping him would mean competing with growing interest from other teams.
Is Cody Bellinger ‘flirting’ with the Phillies?
One of the main candidates to ‘steal’ Cody Bellinger are the Philadelphia Phillies, who are seriously considering bringing in the former MVP to solve a persistent defensive problem with Kyle SchwarberThe Phillies, led by Dave Dombrowski, would consider replacing Schwarber, whose bat is powerful but whose defensive performance is limited, with Bellinger, who contributes on both sides of the game
This move would be strategic and could tip the scales in key postseason matchups.
In addition, the bad time they are experiencing in New York could be decisive for Cody Bellinger, who on several occasions has made it clear that it is not all about statistics and that his focus goes beyond the field, as well as his desire to play in a competitive environment which could be decisive in his decision to change scenery to a team with a better future projection.
I’ve lived in a lot of different places. But as far as baseball goes, I want to play with a group of guys that wants to win
With this statement, the outfielder not only questions his continuity with the Yankees, a team that has shown signs of wear and tear in the clubhouse, where even the manager seems to be playing for his job in each series, but also opens the door to teams that promise growth for the coming seasons, such as the Houston Astros
Where will Cody Bellinger play in 2025?
The Astros, despite facing problems with their aging core and expiring contracts, remain a force to be reckoned with in October. A left-handed bat like Bellinger’s could fit perfectly into their lineup, adding balance and offensive power from the outfield.
In addition to the Phillies and Astros, teams such as the San Francisco Giants and Seattle Mariners are also interested, especially if the ties between Cody Bellinger and the Yankees continue to weaken. With free agency approaching, the competition for his services promises to be intense.
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