Cody Bellinger is back with the New York Yankees on a five-year deal worth $162.5 million. This agreement marks the end of a lengthy negotiation between the player and the team, both eager to continue their partnership.
Bellinger, primarily covering left field, pushed Jasson Dominguez out of a daily role. Last season, he thrived while batting behind Aaron Judge, hitting .272 with 29 home runs and an impressive .813 OPS. He excelled against left-handed pitchers, boasting a .415 on-base percentage.
Defensively, Bellinger shined. He recorded seven outs above average and saved eight runs while playing in various outfield positions and at first base. His efforts translated to a 4.9 fWAR, a notable rebound from previous struggles. In his MVP-winning season of 2019, he achieved 7.8 fWAR, but injuries had taken a toll on his performance since then.
This year, Bellinger is reaping the benefits of his comeback. He made a strong exit from the Chicago Cubs, where he turned his career around last season, batting .307 with 26 home runs. This success led to his current contract, which also features opt-out options after the second and third years.
Bellinger’s journey has been a rollercoaster. He debuted with the Los Angeles Dodgers, winning the 2017 National League Rookie of the Year and the NL MVP in 2019. However, a shoulder injury during the 2020 World Series derailed his performance for several seasons.
The Yankees’ commitment to Bellinger reflects their strategy. Following a disappointing season, they are prioritizing experienced players with a proven track record. Bellinger’s return is a significant move in their effort to build a competitive roster.
As of now, Bellinger is part of a larger trend in baseball, where teams are securing talents with multi-year contracts, emphasizing stability for both players and franchises. The recent player market demonstrates the importance of value, with teams looking for proven performance before making long-term commitments.
For fans and analysts alike, this contract suggests that the Yankees are serious about competing. As Bellinger steps back onto the field, both he and the Yankees hope this season will be a testament to resilience and success.
For more on Bellinger’s contract details and player statistics, refer to ESPN’s coverage here.
