Cody Bellinger Chooses Yankees Over World Baseball Classic Following Blockbuster Contract
In a significant announcement, Cody Bellinger has revealed that he does not anticipate representing the United States at the forthcoming World Baseball Classic. This decision comes merely a week after the star outfielder finalised his monumental new contract with the New York Yankees, underscoring his immediate commitment to the franchise.
A Major Pinstripes Pledge
The 30-year-old two-time All-Star confirmed his return to The Bronx last week, signing an enormous five-year agreement worth $162.5 million. This deal concluded a highly publicised free agency period, during which several top clubs, including the Mets, Phillies, Angels, and Dodgers, were linked with his signature.
Initial reports suggested Bellinger sought a seven-year contract, but negotiations culminated in the five-year pact reported by ESPN insider Jeff Passan. The Yankees had initially tabled an offer around $150 million before settling at the final figure, which provides a substantial boost to manager Aaron Boone's roster planning through 2026.
Loyalty to New York Takes Precedence
Speaking via SNY, Bellinger explained his rationale for bypassing the international tournament, which commences in March. "I owe it to the Steinbrenner family and the Yankee organisation to go and give my best foot forward and try and win a championship," he stated.
While expressing a desire to participate in the World Baseball Classic at some point in his career, Bellinger emphasised that "I don't think this year is going to be the year," particularly so soon after his high-profile free agency move. His absence means Team USA will proceed without him, despite featuring other MLB luminaries like his Yankees teammate Aaron Judge, Paul Skenes, Kyle Schwarber, Alex Bregman, and Clayton Kershaw on manager Mark DeRosa's roster.
Contract Details and Team Impact
Bellinger's lucrative contract includes several player-friendly clauses:
- Opt-out provisions after the second and third seasons.
- A substantial $20 million signing bonus.
- A full no-trade clause, securing his future in New York.
This deal, with an average annual value of $32.5 million, follows his decision to decline a $25 million player option earlier in the offseason. His retention is expected to solidify his role in left field, potentially affecting the lineup position of teammate Jasson Dominguez.
Bellinger's Career Trajectory and Bronx Connection
Acquired by the Yankees in a December 2024 trade from the Chicago Cubs for Cody Poteet and $5 million, Bellinger has rapidly become a fan favourite in New York. In the 2025 season, he primarily batted behind Aaron Judge, posting a .272 average with 29 home runs and an .813 OPS across 152 games.
A World Series champion with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2020, Bellinger began his MLB career with the franchise in 2017. After becoming a free agent post-2022, he initially signed a one-year deal with the Cubs before agreeing to a three-year, $80 million extension. His accolades include two All-Star selections and the 2019 National League MVP award, both achieved during his tenure with the Dodgers.
By prioritising his new Yankees commitment over international duty, Bellinger signals a focused approach to contributing to the team's championship aspirations, reinforcing the significance of his recent contract in shaping his immediate career priorities.
