The New York Yankees spent much of the winter exuding confidence that Cody Bellinger would remain in pinstripes. However, as spring training approaches and negotiations continue to stall, the tone within the organization is beginning to change. According to MLB.com veteran Bryan Hoch, the Yankees may be forced to face an uncomfortable but inevitable question: what is the alternative plan if Bellinger signs with another team?
That concern was heightened by an ESPN report suggesting that the club is already working on the premise that Bellinger could leave. Negotiations have remained distant for months. New York would stand firm on a five-year offer, while the player would be looking for a deal closer to seven seasons, a difference that has stalled any significant progress.
A player who fitted on all fronts
From the Yankees’ perspective, Bellinger fulfilled multiple key needs. He provided left-handed balance, defensive versatility, the ability to play multiple positions and a stabilizing presence in the heart of the lineup. His strong comeback campaign in 2025 reinforced the idea that his recent struggles were an anomaly rather than a sign of decline.
Losing a player of that profile without a clear replacement would not only leave a void in the lineup, but would also expose the narrow margin for error with which management is operating this offseason.
A free agent market with few clean solutions
If Bellinger leaves, the market does not offer direct substitutes. The options in the outfield are drastically reduced after the top names. Kyle Tucker appears to be the most potent alternative from an offensive standpoint, but his price tag – possibly in excess of $300 million – would force the Yankees to cross another financial and psychological threshold.
Brian Cashman has reiterated that the construction of the roster is no longer based on isolated moves. With several long-term commitments already on the payroll, adding another contract of that caliber would severely limit future flexibility.
Bo Bichette and the domino effect
Another name that emerges as a possible pivot is Bo Bichette, whose right-handed bat could help balance the lineup. However, his fit is not straightforward. Bichette is a natural shortstop and his long-term defensive projection has been questioned.
His arrival could trigger a chain reaction involving players such as Jazz Chisholm Jr. or Ryan McMahon, transforming a one-off signing into a complete roster overhaul.
More than a negotiation
Hoch’s report highlights a larger reality: Bellinger was the plan. His versatility allowed the Yankees to cover several contingencies without forcing trades or accelerating internal processes. If he goes, the club will likely have to spread resources into less efficient solutions or negotiate from a position of urgency.
That’s why the question is not only whether the Yankees will retain Bellinger, but whether their winter strategy was designed with enough flexibility to absorb his possible departure. Until that answer is clear, New York’s winter will remain incomplete.
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