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Cody Bellinger is reminding everyone he's more than just a productive bat
New York Yankees left fielder Cody Bellinger. Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Cody Bellinger is reminding everyone he's more than just a productive bat

New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger's defensive performance has been top-notch. 

He has been flashing the leather and upholding his reputation as a reliable defender and key defensive force. 

The most recent display of his high-caliber defense occurred on May 12. He made a running catch in foul territory to close the fourth inning. 

The Yankees snapped their four-game losing streak in the game, beating the Baltimore Orioles 6-2. 

On April 3, Bellinger showcased his defensive wizardry by making an unbelievable athletic catch against the Miami Marlins

The play was initiated after Xavier Edwards hit a 96.4 mph line drive to left field, where Bellinger sprinted 62 feet toward the warning track. He then jumped against the left-field wall but initially missed the ball. Luckily, the ball diverted off his wrist, and he made an acrobatic catch to secure the ball in his glove while falling. Talk about a recovery play, as it saved an extra-base hit in the 9th inning.

Cody Bellinger's notable defensive stats

Bellinger has sustained a defensive WAR (0.7) that has him tied for ninth with Max Muncy. He is also ranked seventh in defensive runs saved (DRS) with eight, cementing himself as an elite defender. 

He also possesses solid arm strength, ranking in the 87th percentile at 89.8 mph. His defensive arm is weighed as a strength, with his arm value of 2 (100th percentile), demonstrating his elite arm in the outfield. 

Lastly, he's made a meaningful impact on the field with a field running value of 3, ranking in the 92nd percentile. 

Cody Bellinger more than just a bat for the Yankees

Bellinger has long been known as a productive offensive player, and that has continued in 2026 as he is slashing .280/.387/.487 with five home runs, 29 RBI and five stolen bases. But his defensive performance this season is also providing value to the Yankees and is reminding everyone why he won a Gold Glove in 2019.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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