The New York Yankees are actively exploring backup options in the event that Cody Bellinger signs elsewhere during the 2026 offseason. While Bellinger remains the team’s top priority, the lack of a finalized deal has prompted the organization to consider alternatives.

Among the potential targets is free-agent outfielder Tommy Pham, who could serve as a platoon option alongside prospects Jasson Domínguez or Spencer Jones. Pham’s experience and performance against left-handed pitching make him a viable candidate to fill Bellinger’s role.

Pham, 34, has shown he can be productive despite a sometimes controversial reputation. Last season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, he batted .245 with 10 home runs and 52 RBIs. While these numbers are modest, his career postseason experience—37 games—adds valuable depth to a Yankees roster eyeing October contention.

One of Pham’s key strengths is his career OPS of .802 against left-handed pitching. This ability to thrive against southpaws makes him a natural platoon partner for younger hitters like Domínguez, who may still be developing consistency against specialized pitchers in the majors.

However, Pham’s on-field demeanor has sparked controversy in the past. In a notable incident against the Toronto Blue Jays, he flipped his bat after drawing a walk and confronted catcher Tyler Heineman, resulting in benches clearing. The episode highlighted Pham’s fiery competitive nature.

Pham defended his actions on social media, claiming Heineman’s remarks about the umpire were disrespectful. While this confrontational style may make him polarizing, it could also align with the Yankees’ emphasis on toughness and competitive edge, particularly in high-stakes games.

In addition to Pham, the Yankees are reportedly considering Austin Hays, another outfielder who demonstrated strong numbers against left-handed pitching last season. Hays’ versatility and ability to contribute in a platoon role would give New York further insurance if Bellinger departs.

Yankees insider Brendan Kuty of The Athletic highlighted Hays as a viable complement to the team’s existing outfield core. Hays’ consistent performance against lefties and ability to handle multiple positions makes him a flexible roster option in a pinch.

The team has already submitted a second offer to Bellinger, signaling their desire to retain him. If successful, Bellinger would primarily occupy left field, with Trent Grisham in center and Aaron Judge patrolling right, creating a formidable outfield trio for the 2026 season.

Securing Bellinger would also provide the Yankees flexibility in managing their roster. With Bellinger in left, the team could consider trading or rotating Domínguez and Spencer Jones to optimize lineup construction or to address other needs elsewhere on the roster.

While Bellinger remains the focal point of the Yankees’ offseason plans, other players such as Edward Cabrera were initially considered to bolster the team’s pitching. However, Cabrera was traded to the Chicago Cubs, leaving the Yankees to explore alternative roster enhancements while keeping Bellinger as a priority.

The Yankees’ approach reflects a strategic balancing act: maintaining depth and competitiveness in the outfield while navigating free agency. By preparing contingency plans with players like Pham or Hays, the team ensures it can adapt if Bellinger chooses a different destination.

From a broader perspective, this strategy aligns with the Yankees’ historical philosophy of combining proven veterans with promising young talent. Pham’s experience, combined with Domínguez and Jones’ upside, allows the Yankees to mitigate risk while remaining aggressive in pursuit of playoff success.

Offensively, Pham brings a contact-oriented approach with occasional power. His ability to reach base and provide situational hitting complements the high-powered bats of Judge, Grisham, and potentially Bellinger, creating lineup balance against both right- and left-handed pitching.

Defensively, Pham can contribute in all three outfield positions, though his best work has come against left-handed pitching matchups. Pairing him with versatile defenders like Domínguez or Jones would give the Yankees flexibility to adjust their defensive alignment depending on matchups and pitcher handedness.

The Yankees’ contingency planning also underscores the importance of timing in free-agent negotiations. With spring training approaching, the team must weigh patience in pursuing Bellinger against the need to secure alternative options before other clubs act.

Ultimately, retaining Bellinger remains the ideal outcome, but players like Pham and Hays provide the Yankees with confidence that they can maintain outfield stability regardless of the free-agent market’s volatility. Depth, experience, and strategic fit remain central to the team’s approach.

In conclusion, the Yankees are carefully positioning themselves for a successful 2026 season, blending high-priority targets like Bellinger with contingency options like Pham and Hays. By preparing multiple pathways to strengthen the outfield, New York aims to balance roster security, offensive firepower, and competitive flexibility.