Cody Bellinger Calls Yankees Return 'No-Brainer' After Long Standoff

The star outfielder is happy to be back with the Yankees after a lengthy free agency negotiation process.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Despite a lengthy free agency negotiation process, New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger said his decision to return to the team was a "no-brainer." Bellinger, who was in constant communication with his agent Scott Boras, noted he's been through the free agency process before and understood the wants and needs on both sides before ultimately agreeing to a $162.5 million contract to stay in New York.

Why it matters

Bellinger's return to the Yankees is significant as the team looks to build on their 94-68 record from last season and make another push for the playoffs after being eliminated in the divisional series. Keeping a star player like Bellinger in the fold is crucial for the Yankees' continued success.

The details

Bellinger, who hit .272 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs in his first season with the Yankees in 2025, said he was in "constant communication" with his agent Scott Boras throughout the free agency process. He noted he's been through free agency "a few times" before and understood the "wants and needs" on both sides before ultimately deciding to return to New York on the $162.5 million contract.

  • Bellinger and the Yankees agreed to the $162.5 million contract on February 16, 2026.

The players

Cody Bellinger

A star outfielder who just completed his first season with the New York Yankees, hitting .272 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs.

Scott Boras

Cody Bellinger's agent, who was in "constant communication" with the player throughout the free agency negotiation process.

New York Yankees

The Major League Baseball team that Cody Bellinger has re-signed with after a lengthy free agency standoff.

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What they’re saying

“When the decision came, it was a no-brainer for me. Grateful to be back.”

— Cody Bellinger (SNY Yankees)

“Well, I've been through it a few times, so I kind of understand the process now. And you know, ultimately, it's you have a meeting before and talk about your wants and needs and, you know, me and Scott [Boras] were in constant communication, and called him all the time, and you know, he's always there to answer my questions.”

— Cody Bellinger (SNY Yankees)

What’s next

The Yankees will look to build on their 94-68 record from last season and make another push for the playoffs with Bellinger back in the fold.

The takeaway

Keeping a star player like Cody Bellinger is crucial for the Yankees' continued success, and his decision to return to the team on a $162.5 million contract after a lengthy free agency process shows his commitment to the organization.