New York Yankees’ offseason plans continue to revolve around Cody Bellinger, as speculation intensifies over whether the former National League MVP will re-sign with the Bombers.
With Bellinger opting out of his previous three-year, $80 million deal, New York now faces stiff competition in free agency while weighing a potential long-term commitment projected at $182 million.
Despite the growing market for elite outfield talent, there is optimism within the organization that the situation will not mirror last offseason’s Juan Soto saga.
The Yankees are reportedly confident they can retain Bellinger and keep him in pinstripes beyond the 2025 season.
Aaron Judge makes his stance clear
One of the strongest voices backing a Bellinger return comes from within the clubhouse. New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge is reportedly a major supporter of re-signing the versatile star, according to New York Post insider Jon Heyman.
“The Yankees have made him their priority and seem pretty confident that, unlike superstar Juan Soto, he won’t skip to Queens. Aaron Judge is said to be a big advocate for re-signing Bellinger,” Heyman wrote in a December 25, 2025 story titled, “What Yankees think of chances of losing Cody Bellinger to Mets.”
Judge’s support underscores how highly Bellinger is valued not just for his production, but also for his fit alongside New York’s existing core.
Contract value and competition shaping talks
Bellinger’s decision to test free agency has positioned him for a significant payday. Spotrac projects his market value at six years and $182 million, a figure that reflects both his offensive upside and defensive versatility. While that price tag is substantial, it is still viewed as more manageable than pursuing other top-tier options.
“Kyle Tucker is the No. 1 free agent, but Cody Bellinger’s versatility works better for the New York teams. (His price tag is lower, too.),” Heyman noted.
That versatility could prove decisive as New York Yankees attempt to balance roster flexibility with long-term financial planning.
New York Yankees remain cautiously optimistic
Although no deal has been finalized, the overall sentiment around the Yankees’ chances remains positive. Interest from teams such as the San Francisco Giants and Bellinger’s former Los Angeles Dodgers adds pressure, but New York’s internal backing — led by Aaron Judge — suggests the franchise is prepared to make a strong push.
As negotiations continue, Cody Bellinger’s future stands as one of the defining storylines of the Yankees’ offseason.