A contractual dispute currently exists between the New York Yankees and Cody Bellinger, as both parties hold significantly divergent opinions regarding his worth.
Accounts suggest the Yankees have proposed an annual sum of $31-32 million for five seasons, whereas Bellinger reportedly desires an average annual value (AAV) of $36-37 million spanning seven years.
It’s conceivable that New York and Bellinger might close this disparity, and the Yankees could be open to innovative solutions—even those requiring a departure from their usual practices—to facilitate an agreement.
According to Brendan Kuty from The Athletic, New York is prepared to incorporate opt-out clauses into Bellinger’s deal, a practice not common for the Yankees.
An opt-out provision was included in Gerrit Cole’s contract, but this has been an isolated instance. Similar to distributing contract extensions, this approach is generally avoided by New York.
Is this an unyielding regulation? Evidently not, considering the Yankees implemented it for Cole. However, it has largely been standard operating procedure for New York, and the Yankees are hardly unique in adhering to such a stringent guideline.
Cody Bellinger. Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images.
Nevertheless, the Yankees’ readiness to deviate from their established norms for Bellinger indicates a strong desire to retain the previous NL MVP, prompting speculation about whether both sides will ultimately reach a consensus.
Recall that a recent weekend report indicated New York was effectively discontinuing their pursuit of Bellinger, proceeding under the assumption that the 30-year-old would not be part of the 2026 roster.
Alex Bregman, 31, securing a five-year, $175 million deal with the Chicago Cubs was not advantageous for the Bronx Bombers, as a credible case can be presented for Bellinger being a more accomplished player than Bregman currently. Furthermore, Bellinger is approximately eighteen months younger.
Yet, Bellinger also possesses a somewhat inconsistent medical record concerning injuries, a factor that is almost certainly a contentious issue for the Yankees during discussions.
New York initially obtained Bellinger through a trade with the Cubs in the previous off-season. The outfielder subsequently achieved a batting line of .272/.334/.480, registering 29 homers and 98 runs batted in across 656 plate appearances in 2025, alongside performing notable defensive plays in the outfield, especially in the corner positions.
Currently, no other franchises seem to be intensely pursuing Bellinger, so it remains to be seen if the player from Scottsdale, Arizona, will eventually consent to rejoin the Bronx club.
