Yankees, Cody Bellinger News Emerges on Thursday

On Thursday, the Yankees received a promising update regarding Bellinger’s potential return, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

While New York has also explored the possibility of adding Kyle Tucker, another high-profile free-agent outfielder, their pursuit of him does not appear to carry the same urgency.

Bellinger remains the clear priority. His versatility in the field and ability to handle the pressure of playing in New York have elevated him above other options. Tucker, meanwhile, has drawn interest, but within the Yankees’ plans he is viewed more as a contingency rather than a focal point.

As Heyman put it, “The Yankees continue to make Bellinger their No. 1 target… The Yankees have checked in on Tucker, but he appears to be a backup plan due to Bellinger’s versatility and New York chops.”

Bellinger just completed his ninth year in MLB, a career that began with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2017. He made an immediate impact by winning National League Rookie of the Year and quickly established himself as one of the most dynamic two-way players in the game.

Over the years, he has collected two All-Star selections, a Gold Glove and two Silver Slugger Awards, achievements that highlight both his defensive skill and offensive excellence. His ability to play multiple outfield positions while producing at the plate has made him one of the more versatile options available in free agency.

For the Yankees, keeping Bellinger is not only about retaining a productive bat but also about securing a proven player who has shown he can thrive under the spotlight.