Yankees Eye Long-Term Deal for Cody Bellinger With Judge’s Support

The New York Yankees have had a quiet start to the 2025 offseason, focusing on re-signing select players like infielder Amed Rosario and outfielder Trent Grisham while making minor adjustments to strengthen the roster. Outside of these moves, the team has yet to make any major splash that could shift the balance in the American League East, particularly against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Amid the subdued activity, the Yankees’ pursuit of Cody Bellinger has emerged as a central storyline. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, team captain Aaron Judge has been a “big advocate” for a long-term deal with the 2019 NL MVP, emphasizing Bellinger’s value both on and off the field.

Bellinger delivered an impressive first season in the Bronx, posting 29 home runs, 98 RBIs, and an .813 OPS over 152 games while contributing elite defense in the outfield. His performance placed him among the league’s top defenders, ranking in the 91st percentile in Fielding Run Value and the 93rd percentile in Range, according to Baseball Savant.

Despite speculation linking Bellinger to a potential move to the New York Mets, sources indicate that the Yankees feel “pretty confident” he will remain in the Bronx. Retaining him could be a pivotal factor in maintaining roster continuity and sustaining the team’s playoff aspirations.

1. Bellinger’s Impact in 2025

Cody Bellinger’s contributions last season extended beyond the box score. His bat provided middle-of-the-order power, offering protection for Aaron Judge and strengthening the Yankees’ overall lineup balance. His left-handed presence also creates matchup challenges for opposing pitchers, particularly in high-leverage situations. Defensively, Bellinger was equally impactful. Ranking in the 91st percentile in Fielding Run Value and 93rd in Range, he solidified the outfield and allowed the Yankees to maximize flexibility in both defensive alignment and roster planning. These metrics underscore his value as a two-way contributor capable of influencing games on both sides of the ball. Beyond stats, Bellinger’s composure and experience have been noted as key intangible factors. He thrives under the spotlight of Yankee Stadium and performs reliably in high-pressure situations, qualities that few free agents can replicate. His presence also helps preserve lineup structure and depth. Without Bellinger, the Yankees would need to explore other free agents or trades to fill a void that could impact both offensive output and defensive alignment.

2. Front Office Commitment

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has consistently emphasized the organization’s interest in retaining Bellinger. Speaking to MLB.com in November, Cashman said, “He was a terrific addition for us last year. He played a big role in the amount of success we wound up having. Certainly, we’d love to have him come back to us.” Cashman acknowledged that the team would explore alternatives if Bellinger does not return but emphasized that the Yankees’ preference is to keep him in New York. “It’s pretty early in the process, but I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Of course we’d like to have him back,” Cashman added, signaling the front office’s intent to remain proactive. Aaron Judge’s influence may play a decisive role. As the face of the franchise and one of baseball’s most respected players, Judge’s advocacy could encourage a more aggressive negotiating stance from the front office, aligning player priorities with organizational strategy. The combination of on-field performance, clubhouse leadership, and front office support makes Bellinger’s potential return a focal point of the Yankees’ offseason. Retaining him would provide stability and position the team for continued success in 2026 and beyond.

3. Potential Implications for the Yankees

Keeping Bellinger would maintain continuity in a roster built around core veterans like Judge and Giancarlo Stanton. His return would preserve offensive balance and defensive reliability while preventing a potential talent shift to crosstown rivals, which could alter the competitive landscape in New York. Bellinger’s left-handed bat also adds strategic depth, creating matchup advantages in the postseason and enhancing flexibility in lineup construction. This versatility reinforces his value beyond raw statistics, particularly in high-stakes situations. From a broader perspective, securing Bellinger would send a message to the league and to fans that the Yankees are committed to maximizing their competitive window. It signals that the organization prioritizes keeping proven contributors while still exploring opportunities to strengthen the roster elsewhere. Ultimately, a successful negotiation would solidify the Yankees’ core and reinforce their status as one of the American League’s most formidable teams, ready to contend for another championship.