Cody Bellinger and the Yankees ink a $162.5 million, 5-year contract
The New York Yankees have secured a deal with free-agent slugger Cody Bellinger, finalizing a $162.5 million, five-year contract. This agreement ensures Bellinger's presence in the iconic pinstripes, marking the culmination of a highly anticipated free-agent signing this offseason. Bellinger, a two-time All-Star, was the last among the top free-agent hitters to reach a deal, with the agreement being subject to a successful physical examination.
The contract includes a $20 million signing bonus, with half payable on April 1st and the remainder on August 1st. Bellinger's salary is set at $32.5 million for each of the first two seasons, $25.8 million for the next two, and $25.9 million in 2030. A unique clause in the agreement allows Bellinger to opt out after the 2027 or 2028 seasons, but if a work stoppage occurs, leading to no games in 2027, the opt-out periods shift to after the 2028 and 2029 seasons.
Bellinger, a left-handed hitter, showcased his prowess last year, batting .272 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs. This performance included an impressive .302 batting average with 18 homers and 55 RBIs at Yankee Stadium. In his first season since 2022, Bellinger played 149 games in the outfield and seven at first base, remaining injury-free. He is the son of former Yankees player Clay Bellinger.
Bellinger's career statistics are impressive, with a .261 batting average, 225 home runs, and 695 RBIs in eight seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers (2018-22), the Chicago Cubs (2023-24), and the Yankees. He earned $57.5 million from an $80 million, three-year contract with the Cubs before the 2024 season, declining a $25 million option for 2026 in favor of a $5 million buyout.
This contract solidifies Bellinger's position as a key player in the Yankees' lineup, adding to the team's offensive firepower and further enhancing their championship aspirations.
