Cody Bellinger signs a five-year, $162.5 million extension with the Yankees, including a full no-trade clause.

At the conclusion of last season, when questioned about his experience with the Yankees, Cody Bellinger glanced at Aaron Judge’s locker in the clubhouse and candidly stated he “absolutely hopes to come back.” Now, the all-around outfielder has secured his place on the roster. According to MLB.com reporter Mark Feinsand, Bellinger has agreed to a five-year, $162.5 million contract extension with the Yankees.

The deal includes a $20 million signing bonus and a complete no-trade clause, pending a physical before it becomes official. Bellinger holds opt-out rights after the 2027 and 2028 seasons, and the contract does not contain any deferred payments. This move signifies the Yankees successfully retained their offseason top priority, as identified by GM Brian Cashman.

Last season, Bellinger posted a slash line of .272/.334/.480, hitting 25 doubles, 29 home runs, and driving in 98 runs, while stealing 13 bases. His 5.1 bWAR marked his best performance since his 2019 National League MVP campaign. His versatility and leadership qualities are highly valued by manager Aaron Boone, with Cashman stating during the winter meetings, “He has a significant impact on us, and we must keep him if the terms are right.”

Although agent Scott Boras revealed that eight teams showed interest in Bellinger and the player initially sought a seven-year deal, the Yankees held firm on a five-year contract after Kyle Tucker signed with the Dodgers and Bo Bichette joined the Mets. The team conceded on opt-out clauses and signing bonus but remained steadfast on the five-year term.

In the upcoming season, Bellinger will help boost the Yankees’ outfield power — with AL MVP Judge anchoring right field, Trent Grisham expected in center, and Bellinger not only guarding left field but also rotating as a left-handed bat alongside first baseman Ben Rice. With his retention, the Yankees might initiate depth trades involving prospects like Jasson Domínguez or top-100 rookie Spencer Jones.

Manager Boone anticipated this situation early on: “Having more talented players than positions is a good problem; competition will make everything fall into place.” Now, with Bellinger’s major extension, the Yankees’ championship puzzle for the new season is becoming more complete.