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Yankees Offer Bellinger $160M, He Seeks More Years

1/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The New York Yankees offered Cody Bellinger a five-year contract up to $160 million, but he seeks seven years with higher AAV.
The Yankees are prepared to move on if Bellinger departs, lacking a solid backup plan.
The market for Bellinger is limited, with interest from only the Yankees and Mets.
Recent contracts, such as Alex Bregman's five-year, $175 million deal with the Cubs, intensify pressure on Bellinger to reconsider.

History

Historical Context

In 2016, Major League Baseball (MLB) established a new collective bargaining agreement, influencing player contracts and free agency. The Chicago Cubs signed Jason Heyward for eight years at $184 million, setting a new standard. As negotiations for Cody Bellinger with the New York Yankees unfold, the evolving landscape of player valuations and team strategies remains significant for MLB's future.

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Story summary

The New York Yankees offered Cody Bellinger a five-year contract up to $160 million, but he seeks seven years with higher AAV.
The Yankees are prepared to move on if Bellinger departs, lacking a solid backup plan.
The market for Bellinger is limited, with interest from only the Yankees and Mets.
Recent contracts, such as Alex Bregman's five-year, $175 million deal with the Cubs, intensify pressure on Bellinger to reconsider.

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