Cody Bellinger, son of a Yankee, was in the Bronx this past weekend along with his family, including his father, Clay.
On the cusp of his first All-Star selection since his MVP season in 2019, Bellinger expressed how meaningful this opportunity is to him. “It’s definitely going to be special,” he noted. “Honestly, it would be great to share that experience with kids who weren’t there the last time we made it.”
Bellinger has remained committed to the five-year, $162.5 million contract he signed with the Yankees during the offseason, aided by a strong start this season. In Sunday’s 4-1 defeat against the Reds, he reached base twice and swiped two bases. It looks like he might have his best season since 2019.
Among the six contracts signed this offseason for potential nine-figure position players, Bellinger is arguably doing the best so far. He entered Sunday with the highest Wins Above Replacement (WAR) in a group that includes familiar names like Alex Bregman and Pete Alonso, as well as Kyle Schwarber and Bo Bichette. Interestingly, Kyle Tucker, who was also on the Yankees’ radar, hasn’t shined so brightly with the Dodgers, coming into Sunday with a league-average OPS plus of 100.
Bellinger has become crucial to the Yankees’ lineup, especially with injuries affecting key players like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton. His big contract also draws additional attention.
He’s aware of the pressure that comes with it. “My contract definitely allows me to take care of my family, but I still want to perform to the best of my ability,” he mentioned. “I want to perform better than my contract. I want to keep it.” But, of course, that’s easier said than done.
Paul Goldschmidt, who signed a five-year, $130 million extension with the Cardinals in 2019, understands this challenge. “It all depends on your mindset,” Goldschmidt said. “Whether you’re in high school or on the biggest stage, there’s always pressure. You want to honor your contract, but you can’t let it consume you.” He went on to highlight Bellinger’s steady character, noting that he’s still the same guy, regardless of the stakes.
Bellinger’s career has had its ups and downs. He burst onto the scene as the National League Rookie of the Year in 2017, followed by a solid 2018, an MVP year in 2019, and a World Series title in 2020. Yet, he also faced setbacks, like injuring his right shoulder and undergoing surgery afterward. After a rough two years with the Dodgers, where he struggled significantly, he was eventually traded to the Yankees in December 2024 and has since found his rhythm in the Bronx.
“I’m definitely grateful for everything,” Bellinger reflected. “So many people have helped me get to where I am. I’m in a good spot, so I just have to give it my all.”
