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Yankees Target Cody Bellinger Amid Rising Trade Tension

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, November 10th 2025 at 17:45 GMT by Sports Illustrated

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New York Yankees Eye Cody Bellinger Amid Intense Competition

The New York Yankees are on a mission to add a top-tier talent to their outfield, and their sights are set on the highly touted Cody Bellinger of the Los Angeles Dodgers. With a roster that demands a blend of power and defensive versatility, the Yankees see Bellinger as the missing piece that could keep the club competitive on the road to another World Series title. The news has ignited a frenzy of speculation, as the Dodgers, Bellinger’s current team, and a handful of other MLB franchises weigh in on the potential trade and free‑agency battle.

The Attraction

Bellinger’s 2023 season was a study in contrasts. The former National League MVP struggled with injuries—he missed the first two months and returned to a limited role that saw him hit .229 with 15 home runs and 50 RBIs. However, when he was healthy, his performance was nothing short of spectacular. He posted a .341 on-base percentage, led the National League in doubles (58), and recorded a slugging percentage of .590. Defensively, he demonstrated a rare ability to cover ground and make hard throws from the outfield, making him a versatile option in a Yankees lineup that needs both power and range.

The Yankees, meanwhile, have found themselves short on outfield depth after the departure of Aaron Judge’s main replacement. While the team has several promising prospects, none have the veteran experience or the proven track record that Bellinger brings. In a 2024 preseason assessment, several analysts noted that Bellinger’s blend of power, contact ability, and defensive skill would seamlessly integrate into a Yankees lineup that features Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and emerging talent such as Aaron Hicks.

Competitive Landscape

The Dodgers are not ready to let the star of their farm system go. The organization’s front office and fans alike are eager to keep Bellinger, a player they consider a franchise cornerstone. However, Bellinger’s contract is set to expire at the end of 2024, and there are whispers that the Dodgers might consider a trade if a compelling offer arrives. In the meantime, Bellinger’s agents have been engaged in a series of negotiations with multiple clubs, including the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Mets, both of which have shown interest.

The Mets, in particular, are actively seeking to bolster their lineup with a power hitter. With Max Scherzer’s departure and a lack of depth at first base, the Mets could see Bellinger as a fit that fills a long-term void. The Orioles, meanwhile, have been looking to upgrade their outfield after a lackluster 2023 season. Both teams are offering competitive financial packages that might entice Bellinger away from the Dodgers, but the Yankees have been seen as a particularly attractive destination due to their storied history and the potential for playoff contention.

Financial Considerations

A key element of the Yankees’ bid is the contract value. Reports indicate that the Yankees are prepared to offer a multi‑year, 10‑year contract that could be worth as much as $250 million, a figure that rivals the Dodgers’ own offers. Bellinger’s agent, who has represented several elite outfielders over the past decade, has stated that a competitive offer will hinge on the Yankees’ willingness to place him in a role that matches his strengths—primarily as a top‑line center fielder.

The Dodgers, meanwhile, have reportedly been offering a structured contract that includes performance bonuses tied to offensive and defensive metrics. They are also weighing the potential for Bellinger to play a more substantial role in the 2026 season if he remains with the organization.

Impact on the Yankees’ Roster

Should Bellinger land in New York, the Yankees would benefit from a player capable of both hitting the ball to the fences and providing consistent power numbers from the left side of the ballpark. Bellinger’s ability to stretch single hits into extra‑bases would complement the Yankees’ existing power hitters. Defensively, his range and arm strength would provide stability at center field, allowing the team to potentially drop a short‑stop or bring a player with defensive skills to a different position.

The Yankees have also indicated that they would consider a trade package that includes top prospects and/or other veteran players to appease the Dodgers. The trade would need to balance the immediate needs of the team with the long‑term goal of staying competitive in the American League East.

Next Steps

The Yankees have reportedly sent a formal offer to the Dodgers, and the response is pending. In the meantime, Bellinger’s agents are negotiating with the Mets and Orioles, while the Dodgers continue to evaluate whether a trade or a renewed contract would best serve their objectives. The MLB trade deadline is still a couple of months away, giving all parties time to explore all possible options.

In conclusion, the potential acquisition of Cody Bellinger represents a high‑stakes endeavor for the New York Yankees, with the trade’s outcome contingent on contract negotiations, the competitive landscape, and the strategic priorities of all teams involved. If the Yankees succeed, Bellinger could become a cornerstone of a team that is poised for sustained success in the coming years.