Will Cody Bellinger Return to Yankees? Dodgers, Blue Jays Also Reportedly Eye Contract

The New York Yankees reportedly will have some major competition if they hope to retain veteran outfielder Cody Bellinger this offseason.

ESPN's Jeff Passan reported that the Yankees "would like a return engagement with Bellinger," especially if fellow outfielder Trent Grisham turns down the qualifying offer. However, the two teams that played in the 2024 World Series will also be pursuing the 30-year-old.

Passan noted that the Toronto Blue Jays view Bellinger "as a perfectly good alternative" to prized free-agent outfielder Kyle Tucker, who is considered the top player on the market. Meanwhile, the back-to-back reigning World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers "have expressed interest" in a potential reunion with the two-time All-Star.

Bellinger began his MLB career with the Dodgers in 2017 and remained in Los Angeles until he was non-tendered following the 2022 season. He was named NL MVP in 2019, and he helped the Dodgers win a World Series in 2020.

Bellinger had a strong season at the plate in his first season with the Yankees, hitting .272 with 29 home runs and 98 RBI. His potential departure would leave a major hole in a New York lineup that needs lefty hitting.

It appears that Bellinger will have a tough decision to make as he tries to figure out which contending team he should suit up for in 2026 and beyond.