Three potential landing spots for Cody Bellinger

Cody Bellinger put a mediocre 2024 behind him in his only year with the New York Yankees.

Acquired to protect outfielder Aaron Judge in the lineup after Juan Soto departed for the Mets, Bellinger was exactly what the Yankees needed. He posted a .272/.334/.480 batting line over 656 plate appearances, hitting 29 homers and 25 doubles. His 5.1 bWAR was his best mark since leading the National League with 8.7 bWAR during his MVP season in 2019. It was an easy decision for Bellinger to opt out of the final year of his contract and enter free agency.

The 30-year-old Bellinger provides more than a solid bat in the middle of the lineup. He is capable of playing all three outfield positions and first base, typically providing above-average defense at each spot. Bellinger is the type of player who virtually every team could use in the lineup. Let's take a look at three possible teams that could sign him.

Three potential landing spots for Cody Bellinger in free agency

1. New York Yankees

No team may need Bellinger more than the Yankees. While Judge is a perennial MVP candidate in right, the rest of the outfield is far more uncertain. Center fielder Trent Grisham is slated for free agency, although he could accept the qualifying offer. Jasson Dominguez is penciled in as the starting left fielder, but he struggled in the second half as he lost playing time down the stretch. 

First base may be open as well, depending on whether or not the Yankees want Ben Rice to be their primary catcher. Even if Grisham accepts the offer and returns, the Yankees have plenty of holes.

A reunion is possible. Bellinger was clear that he would be willing to return to the Yankees, the franchise his father, Clay Bellinger, won a pair of World Series titles with, saying that he had "an unbelievable time" in New York. The Yankees, likewise, want him back in pinstripes. It may just be a matter of getting the financials to work.

2. Los Angeles Angels

The Angels desperately need an infusion of talent throughout the roster if they are going to even think about contending for a playoff spot. Although the Angels are focused on bolstering their pitching staff, they are also looking to improve the lineup, preferring to add a left-handed hitter to provide more balance to the lineup.

While the Angels have a backlog of corner outfield/designated hitter types, center field is a distinct area of need. Jim Bowden of The Athletic listed the Angels as the best fit for Bellinger, as he would be a perfect fit for one of their biggest needs. However, it is fair to wonder if he would be willing to sign with a team that, even with his bat in the lineup, would need several more pieces to contend for the postseason.

3. Philadelphia Phillies

If there is a team that needs Bellinger more than the Yankees, it may be the Phillies. Kyle Schwarber is a free agent, and although the Phillies would like to bring him back, he is best suited as a designated hitter defensively. Outfielder Nick Castellanos imploded last season and is expected to be traded or released. Fellow outfielders Harrison Bader and Max Kepler are also free agents, leaving Brandon Marsh as the only given in the Phillies outfield.

Signing Bellinger could also improve the Phillies outfield at another position. Outfield prospect Justin Crawford may be ready for the majors offensively, but there are questions about his defense, especially in center. By slotting Bellinger in center, Crawford could move over to left, putting less pressure on his glove as he acclimates to the majors.