Yankees Update: Bellinger and Williams Impact Lineup
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman addressed reporters recently, sharing insights on key free agent signings and the team’s plans for the 2026 roster. One of the primary topics was free agent outfielder Cody Bellinger, who remains at the forefront of discussions regarding the lineup.
Bellinger’s Potential Return to the Yankees
Cashman stated that the Yankees are eager to re-sign Bellinger. “Cody Bellinger would be a great fit for us,” he remarked, emphasizing the player’s versatility and ability to hit well against both left and right-handed pitchers. Bellinger had a notable season, posting a .272 batting average with 29 home runs and 13 stolen bases.
- Bellinger opted out of a contract valued at $25 million for one year.
- He is likely to attract a more lucrative deal due to his strong performance.
In addition to Bellinger, Cashman indicated that the Yankees are keeping an eye on fellow free agent Kyle Tucker as a potential alternative if Bellinger does not return. However, Tucker has yet to visit the Yankees’ facility in Tampa and recently toured the Blue Jays’ complex instead.
Lineup Configuration Concerns
Cashman acknowledged that the current roster skews left-handed, which could become a problem for lineup balance. Currently, only Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton are regular right-handed hitters planned for next season.
- Shortstop Jose Caballero is expected to start until Anthony Volpe joins the lineup.
- Following them, the roster includes several lefties and a few switch-hitters.
Despite concerns about lineup balance, the Yankees excelled against left-handed pitching in 2025, leading the league in on-base plus slugging (OPS), weighted on-base average (wOBA), and weighted runs created plus (wRC+). They also tied for the most home runs against lefties.
George Lombard Jr.’s Development
If the Yankees attempt to address their lineup balance, they may consider promoting infield prospect George Lombard Jr. Although Cashman is optimistic about Lombard’s potential, he believes the player is not quite ready for the majors. Lombard had a challenging season at Double-A, hitting .215 with a marked increase in strikeout rates.
- Lombard performed well at High-A before moving to Double-A.
- He recorded 24 steals and eight home runs during the season.
- A strong start next season could push him into an MLB role.
Devin Williams Signs with Mets
In a separate development, Cashman revealed that the Yankees did not pursue a reunion with former reliever Devin Williams. Williams signed a three-year, $51 million contract with the Mets, despite earlier indications of mutual interest between him and the Yankees. His transition to the Mets was influenced by the absence of a closer role after Edwin Diaz opted out of his contract.
Cashman’s focus remains on strengthening the team while navigating the challenges of the free-agent market. The 2026 season will hinge on strategic decisions regarding both current and prospective players, particularly concerning Bellinger and Lombard’s development.
