Yankees Sign Cody Bellinger to 5-Year, $162.5 Million Contract

The New York Yankees have officially re-signed outfielder Cody Bellinger to a lucrative five-year contract worth $162.5 million. The deal, confirmed by a league source, includes a $20 million signing bonus and no deferrals. Bellinger’s contract also features opt-out clauses after the second and third years, along with a full no-trade clause.

Cody Bellinger Contract Details

• Contract Length: 5 years
• Total Value: $162.5 million
• Signing Bonus: $20 million
• Opt-Out Clauses: After years 2 and 3
• No-Trade Clause: Included

ESPN was the first to report the news, which resolves a significant priority for the Yankees this offseason. Bellinger’s return strengthens the lineup, placing him alongside star player Aaron Judge and bolstering the defense in left field.

Yankees’ Offseason Strategy

The Yankees engaged in extensive negotiations with Bellinger’s agent, Scott Boras, before finalizing this agreement. Initially, there were rumors of multiple teams interested in Bellinger, particularly after the New York Mets expressed interest. The Mets ultimately acquired outfielder Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox, narrowing the competition exclusively to the Yankees.

The Yankees’ previous offer included a five-year deal valued between $155 million and $160 million, along with similar opt-out provisions. However, Bellinger aimed for a longer contract with higher annual value, stemming from negotiations that stretched over several weeks.

Impact on the Yankees’ Roster

This signing allows the Yankees to shift their focus to other roster needs, particularly starting pitching. The organization has been in discussions with the Milwaukee Brewers regarding pitcher Freddy Peralta. Meanwhile, they must decide on the future of Jasson Domínguez, a switch-hitting former prospect who currently lacks a clear position on the team.

Bellinger’s Performance and Background

Bellinger had an impressive 2025 season, hitting .272 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs in 152 games. He played primarily in left field, showcasing significant offensive production, especially at Yankee Stadium, where he achieved a .909 OPS.

Injuries plagued Bellinger earlier in his career, but since undergoing shoulder surgery in 2020, he has demonstrated durability by playing at least 130 games in each of the last four seasons. He also received accolades as the National League Rookie of the Year in 2017 and the NL MVP in 2019.

Current Payroll Situation

With Bellinger’s contract, the Yankees’ luxury tax payroll is projected at approximately $324 million, exceeding the highest threshold of $304 million. This situation incurs a 110 percent tax rate on any expenditure over the limit. As it stands, the Yankees have the fourth-highest payroll in MLB.

Projected Lineup for the Upcoming Season

Bellinger’s return to the Yankees not only solidifies their lineup but also positions them to address other areas of need as they prepare for the upcoming season.