When it comes to the Yankees’ offseason plans, all signs seem to be pointing toward Cody Bellinger, especially if Juan Soto ends up signing elsewhere. Just this week, Jack Curry from The Yes Network made it clear that the Yankees have a real “love” for Bellinger, particularly at first base. And when you combine that with multiple reports that New York has “no interest” in reuniting with Anthony Rizzo, it’s easy to connect the dots. 

Coming off a more modest year in 2024, Cody Bellinger didn’t quite replicate his previous 4.4-WAR performance. However, at 29, Bellinger is still in his prime and will likely be motivated to prove that his 2024 season was an exception. He exercised his $27.5 million player option for 2025 and has another $25 million option for 2026. That gives the team acquiring him a solid financial window to work with. 

Cody Bellinger gets a new suitor 

As the Yankees keep an eye on Cody Bellinger, they’re far from the only team interested in his services. The Houston Astros have also emerged as a potential landing spot. The Astros’ needs make him a logical fit. The team is looking to upgrade both first base and center field. Bellinger could slide into either spot, depending on how they want to deploy him. If the Chicago Cubs decide to move on from Bellinger, they’ll be looking to free up money for other roster needs. Michael Busch is already in place at first base, and Pete Crow-Armstrong is emerging as the Cubs’ long-term center fielder.

The Cubs could potentially get a solid return by moving Bellinger. Prospects like Zach Dezenzo and Ryan Forcucci can be on the horizon. A trade like this could help Chicago balance its payroll while strengthening other areas of their roster. For the Astros, adding Bellinger could be the perfect move to plug a hole while maintaining flexibility in the outfield and at first base. And for the Yankees, if Soto slips through their fingers, Bellinger remains a prime target. Either way, there’s a lot of movement in the market for Bellinger; while the Yankees and Astros are both in the mix as serious contenders, a third team might be a perfect fit too.

Toronto Blue Jays named as one of the top landing spots for the slugger

The Chicago Cubs are making it clear that they’re open to moving former MVP Cody Bellinger. MLBTradeRumors has named the Toronto Blue Jays as one of the top landing spots for the slugger. The Blue Jays join the Houston Astros and Philadelphia Phillies as the three teams that could be a perfect fit for Bellinger. Toronto’s interest makes sense—the Blue Jays have been looking to solidify their outfield and add more offensive punch, and Bellinger can offer both. 

Cody Bellinger has shown he can be a game-changer, and playing in the hitter-friendly Rogers Centre could help him. Just like the Yanks, the Toronto Blue Jays are all-in on landing superstar Juan Soto in free agency. But if they fall short in that pursuit, Bellinger could be a smart backup plan. Good for him though, because only one team can get Soto, and others will then turn their heads to none other than Cody himself. Moreover, Bellinger has a player option after the 2025 season, which means he could be a one-year rental for the Jays. 

Should Toronto decide to lock up Vladimir Guerrero Jr. or Bo Bichette on long-term deals, Bellinger’s contract wouldn’t eat into their ability to retain these stars. Essentially, the Blue Jays could get a big boost from Bellinger in 2025 without worrying about long-term salary commitments, which makes him an attractive option. The 29-year-old could be in an outfield already featuring George Springer and Kevin Kiermaier.