Home / Sports / Yankees Secure Bellinger in Landmark $162.5M Deal
Yankees Secure Bellinger in Landmark $162.5M Deal
22 Jan
Summary
- Cody Bellinger signed a five-year, $162.5 million contract with the Yankees.
- The deal includes opt-outs after years two and three, plus a no-trade clause.
- This signing addresses the Yankees' top winter priority and aids Judge's prime.
Cody Bellinger is returning to the New York Yankees after agreeing to a five-year, $162.5 million contract. This significant deal includes opt-outs after the second and third years, with a full no-trade clause also incorporated. The agreement signals the Yankees' commitment to their top winter priority.
This contract structure mirrors recent deals, providing substantial upfront money while offering players future flexibility. Bellinger previously played for the Yankees in 2024, earning $80 million over three years, with $60 million in the first two seasons before opting out. This new agreement aims to keep him in the Bronx.
The Yankees view Bellinger's presence as essential for leveraging Aaron Judge's peak performance. With a strong 2024 season including 29 home runs and 98 RBI, the team anticipates Bellinger, aged 30, will continue to perform well at Yankee Stadium.
Looking ahead, the Yankees are reportedly interested in acquiring starting pitcher Freddy Peralta. Despite Peralta being under contract for only one more year before free agency, his affordability at $8 million makes him an attractive rental option to bolster the rotation.
