Playing for the New York Yankees in 2025, Cody Bellinger enjoyed an impressive season.
When he opted out of the remainder of his contract to try his luck in free agency, the Bronx Bombers were considered the favorites to re-sign Bellinger, especially after general manager Brian Cashman expressed his desire to do so during the Yankees’ end-of-season press conference.
The Yankees eventually succeeded in getting their man, signing Bellinger to a five-year, $162.5 million contract.
In addition to his own strengths at the plate, Cody Bellinger also makes it much harder for opposing pitchers to effectively pitch around captain Aaron Judge.
Featuring on the New York Yankees’ edition of MLB Network’s “30 Clubs, 30 Camps” on Thursday, Bellinger offered his view on protecting Judge in the lineup.
“You know what, last year, it was pretty amazing seeing what he can do up close. Talking to Booney (Aaron Boone), depending on the team, depending on the lead, they (opposing pitchers) are going to walk him,” Bellinger said (1:39).
“You know what I mean, they’re not letting him beat you. Just for me, I’m getting ready in the hole, because I know they’re going to walk him. It’s fun, man, I think he’s the best hitter on the planet. It’s fun to watch him work every day,” he added.
Insider Explains Why Cody Bellinger Brings More To The Yankees Than His Stats Suggest, Compares Him To LA Dodgers Star
During January 27’s episode of the “Pinstripe Post” podcast, insider Joel Sherman of the New York Post explained why Bellinger brings much more value to the team than his stats suggest. To drive his point home, Sherman drew parallels between Bellinger and LA Dodgers superstar Mookie Betts.
“He’s such a good athlete and such a versatile player. It starts with making your manager’s life easier. He can play four positions, none of them worse than average, some of them well above average. He runs the bases well. He hits left-hand pitching as a lefty well,” Sherman said (7:40).
“When I watch Mookie Betts play, I always say, every day in some way, he helps you win a baseball game. He’s a defensive player, he’s a base runner, he’s a hitter, there’s power, it’s about the five tools, it’s about versatility, it’s about playing in a big market without letting the noise bother you. It’s about being a good clubhouse citizen. I think all of that elevates Bellinger beyond just standard numbers,” he added.
Finishing the 2025 season with a .279 batting average, 29 home runs, and 98 RBIs, Bellinger was instrumental in helping the Yankees qualify for the playoffs. Fans will be hoping to see more of the same from the outfielder in 2026, as the Bronx Bombers look to win their first World Series title since 2009.
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