Cody Bellinger has opted out of his contract with the New York Yankees, entering free agency after a strong 2025 season. Several teams, including the Los Angeles Angels, Dodgers, and New York Mets, have shown interest in the 30-year-old outfielder. His versatility and performance make him a sought-after player this offseason.
Cody Bellinger exercised his opt-out clause on November 2, declining a $25 million salary for 2026 in favor of a $5 million buyout. The Yankees acquired him from the Chicago Cubs last December in exchange for right-hander Cody Poteet and cash, following their loss of Juan Soto to the Mets. In 2025, Bellinger delivered 29 home runs, 98 RBIs, an .813 OPS, and 4.9 FanGraphs WAR over 152 games, primarily in left field for New York. His defensive skills shone with seven outs above average and a +9 fielding run value, while he also stole double-digit bases.
The Los Angeles Angels checked in on Bellinger on November 20, seeking a left-handed bat after trading outfielder Taylor Ward, who hit 36 homers in 153 games. With Nolan Schanuel as their only projected left-handed starter, Bellinger could fill a lineup gap. The Dodgers, Bellinger's original team where he earned 2017 NL Rookie of the Year, 2019 NL MVP, and 2020 World Series honors, expressed reunion interest on November 18, per ESPN's Jeff Passan. Los Angeles seeks an outfield upgrade after batting .229 with a .385 slugging percentage in left field.
The Toronto Blue Jays also like Bellinger, while the Yankees prioritize re-signing him after Trent Grisham accepted their qualifying offer. On November 8, Sports Illustrated's Pat Ragazzo reported the Mets could be heavily involved, potentially at center field or first base if Pete Alonso departs. The Mets' center field options included Tyrone Taylor, Jeff McNeil, and free agent Cedric Mullins, with trade talks possible for McNeil. Bellinger's 2023 Cubs season, featuring a Silver Slugger and Comeback Player of the Year, plus his fit as a backup plan for top free agent Kyle Tucker, broadens his appeal.