The New York Yankees are focusing on re-signing free agent outfielder Cody Bellinger as they plan for the 2026 season following their ALDS loss to the Toronto Blue Jays. General manager Brian Cashman confirmed discussions with Bellinger's representatives, alongside interest in Kyle Tucker. Competition includes the Los Angeles Dodgers, who view Bellinger as a potential return to their roster.
After a disappointing end to the 2025 season, the Yankees are gearing up for an active offseason. They fell to the Blue Jays in the American League Division Series, where Toronto scored 34 runs over 34 innings. Both teams finished with 94 wins, but the Jays dominated their 13 regular-season meetings, winning eight. Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner acknowledged Toronto's superior play, stating, “They definitely played better than us. They slugged better than us, they hit the ball and put it in play better than us, and they pitched better than us. That’s why they won.”
The loss compounds challenges after the Dodgers claimed back-to-back World Series titles, the first since the Yankees' dynasty from 1998-2000. With a 2025 payroll of $319 million—second-highest in MLB behind the Dodgers' $415 million—the Yankees spent significantly on players like Marcus Stroman ($18.5 million), DJ LeMahieu ($15 million), and Aaron Hicks ($10.785 million). Steinbrenner emphasized efficient spending over sheer volume, noting the Mets' high payroll yielded no playoff appearance.
Rebuilding around three-time AL MVP Aaron Judge, the Yankees secured center fielder Trent Grisham with a $22.025 million qualifying offer. Cashman highlighted outfield needs, saying the team is communicating with agents for Bellinger and Tucker, the top free agents in a thin market. “There’s certain salary levels we’ll tag out at,” Cashman said. A projected seven-year, $182 million deal for Bellinger draws interest from the Yankees, Phillies, Angels, and Dodgers. Bellinger's agent Scott Boras indicated openness to a Dodgers return, citing his past successes there, including 2019 NL MVP honors.
Infield plans include Ben Rice, Jazz Chisholm Jr., Anthony Volpe (rehabbing from surgery), and Ryan McMahon, with José Caballero and Oswaldo Cabrera vying for shortstop. The bullpen is a priority need, with Devin Williams and Luke Weaver as free agents. The rotation faces early hurdles with Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón recovering from surgery, though Clarke Schmidt could contribute later. Cashman stressed health preparations: “We’ll be exploring how to protect ourselves so we’re not taking on water early.” As Winter Meetings approach, these moves aim to position the Yankees for contention.