The New York Yankees hit a home run when they acquired outfielder Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs.

Bellinger has been a crucial piece of the Bronx Bombers’ lineup, and they would likely prefer to keep him long term. But Bellinger has an opt-out clause in his contract after this season, which could land him in free agency.

MLB’s Mark Feinsand recently listed the Houston Astros as a potential suitor for Bellinger if he opts out of his contract following this season.

“Bellinger is in the second year of a three-year, $80 million contract, though most expect him to opt out of the final year and $25 million to test free agency this winter,” Feinsand wrote. “After an uneven 2024 campaign with the Cubs, Bellinger has thrived in the Bronx, belting 24 home runs with 75 RBIs and an .823 OPS in 116 games, putting him on track for his second 4-WAR season in three years. The versatile slugger has been a perfect fit for the Yankees, but other teams could try to pry the former NL MVP away from New York with the long-term deal that has evaded him to this point.”

In reality, Bellinger has been a perfect fit for the Yankees, and the Yankees have been perfect for him. But when free agency hits, money talks.

The Astros could land him on the perfect deal, especially if the Yankees are busy chasing another starting pitcher or a superstar like Kyle Tucker. The Astros could use Bellinger in the outfield or at first base, depending on how Christian Walker progresses in the future.

Either way, the Astros have the money, and the fit makes sense. If the Yankees aren’t careful, one of their biggest rivals could steal their star outfielder.