Yankees Eye Cody Bellinger for Offseason Plans

LAS VEGAS — A key step in shaping an ideal offseason for the Yankees would be re-signing Cody Bellinger. While there are certainly more obstacles ahead, this particular move would likely be the simplest compared to other options.

Imagine Bellinger finally joining the Yankees. He wouldn’t just occupy an outfield position—likely center field if Trent Grisham declines his $22 million qualifying offer and signs with another team—or left field if he accepts. Bellinger, a left-handed hitter, would provide a genuine threat beside Aaron Judge, as he has throughout much of this season.

The Yankees could consider Ben Rice for that role, but Aaron Boone often places him in front of Judge. Besides, the lineup feels a bit thin unless they make another significant move.

If the Yankees can’t bring Bellinger back—with predictions suggesting a six-year, $180 million deal for the 30-year-old—this could mean missing out on Kyle Tucker. He’s a top contender in free agency, with expected offers surpassing Judge’s $360 million contract.

Beyond Bellinger and Tucker, the free-agent market isn’t brimming with promising outfielders. Grisham is next on the list, and it’s unclear if he’ll accept the qualifying offer after his breakout season. Then there’s Harrison Bader, who has already shown promise during his time with the Yankees.

Of course, trades are always a possibility, but they tend to be more complicated.

If Bellinger leaves and Grisham opts out, might the Yankees consider a youth-driven approach? This could mean giving Jason Dominguez a shot as the everyday left fielder and allowing Spencer Jones a chance to prove himself as the center fielder during spring training. But that kind of strategy feels like a risky gamble—too much uncertainty for a team eager to capitalize on Judge’s peak years.

A more reliable move could involve signing a seasoned right-handed center fielder like Bader. This Bronxville native is coming off his best season, hitting .277 with an impressive OPS over 117 in 146 games with the Twins and Phillies. Bader had his moments in New York but also has a checkered history with injuries, despite being mostly healthy these past two years.

The next center field options are looking slimmer, including former Oriole Cedric Mullins, who is coming off a rough season, or 35-year-old Mike Yastrzemski, who may be better suited for a corner position.

It seems moving Dominguez back to center field is off the table, at least according to Manager Aaron Boone, who emphasized keeping him in left field. Dominguez, who just arrived from the Dominican Winter League, is expected to focus on honing his skills.

The advantage of re-signing Bellinger lies in his defensive flexibility, which gives the Yankees various options. If Grisham goes for the qualifying offer, Bellinger could take on left field or first base duties. But if Grisham declines, he could step in as center fielder.

If Jones comes to camp showing he’s a legitimate contender for the job, the Yankees might even play Bellinger in multiple positions while keeping his bat consistently in the lineup.

However, that versatility also makes Bellinger appealing to other teams. His previous squad, the Dodgers, as well as the Mets and Phillies (if they can’t re-sign Kyle Schwarber), are likely to be in the mix as well.

The groundwork for Bellinger’s potential return could begin at the general managers’ meetings this week, but it might become a heavier lift for the Yankees if they can’t make the reunion happen.