The Yankees Make a Bold Move: A Formal Contract Offer to a Former MVP
The New York Yankees, a powerhouse in Major League Baseball, have been relatively quiet this offseason, while their rivals in the American League East have been making waves. But according to The New York Post's Jon Heyman, the Yankees are about to make a significant move that could shake up the league.
Heyman reports that the Yankees have submitted a formal contract offer to Cody Bellinger, the former National League MVP. Bellinger, who spent the 2025 season with the Chicago Cubs, is known for his impressive career, marked by both peaks and resilience.
Bellinger's journey began with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2017, where he was named Rookie of the Year after hitting 39 home runs. His 2019 season was a career-defining moment, as he claimed the National League MVP title with 47 homers and 115 RBIs. However, injuries from 2020 to 2022 forced the Dodgers to non-tender him.
Despite these setbacks, Bellinger demonstrated his resilience by reviving his form with the Chicago Cubs in 2023 and 2024, earning the Comeback Player of the Year award in 2023. His 2025 campaign with the Yankees was solid, as he hit .272 with 29 home runs, 98 RBIs, 13 stolen bases, and a 5.1 WAR across 152 games, primarily in the outfield. He was also selected for the All-MLB Second Team.
This potential signing by the Yankees is a significant development, as it could impact the team's strategy and performance in the upcoming season. The question remains: will Bellinger accept the offer and continue his stellar career with the Yankees?