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The New York Yankees picked up another big win against the rival Boston Red Sox on Saturday, thanks in part to the player who has become their most reliable late-game weapon. Cody Bellinger came through yet again, lacing a ninth-inning line drive off Aroldis Chapman to give the Yankees some breathing room.

It was just the latest in a season filled with clutch moments for Bellinger, who leads the club in batting average with runners in scoring position. His presence has been a stabilizing force for an offense that has wavered at times. As October looms, the Yankees know they will need Bellinger’s bat if they want to make a serious push toward the World Series.

But here’s the reality no one in the Bronx wants to admit: this might be Bellinger’s one and only season in pinstripes.

Free Agency Looms Large

According to Bob Klapisch of NJ.com, Bellinger is widely expected to opt out of the final year of his contract this winter. The outfielder is making $27.5 million in 2025, but his market value has only skyrocketed after his bounce-back season. “Bellinger, who’ll earn $27.5 million this season, is a lock to get at least $33-$35 million per year in his next contract,” Klapisch wrote. “Someone will pay. But will it be the Yankees? My crystal ball says no, they will let Bellinger walk.”

The Yankees have certainly paid big money to stars before, but the front office might hesitate with this one. While Bellinger has delivered in his debut campaign, the looming price tag would lock the team into another long-term, high-cost deal. General manager Brian Cashman and owner Hal Steinbrenner could decide the smarter play is to let another franchise write that check.

The other factor working against Bellinger’s return is the Yankees’ depth of young outfield talent. The organization has invested heavily in Jasson Dominguez, who is working his way back into the lineup after injury. They also hold team control over top prospect Spencer Jones is knocking on the door.

“Jones has nothing left to prove in the minors,” Klapisch added. “If Steinbrenner has to pick between paying $35 million a year to a cherished veteran and christening the career of the system’s best up-and-coming slugger … well, you know that answer.”

That line of thinking reflects a broader shift in organizational thinking. The Yankees can save money by leaning into their pipeline and still field an outfield that features Aaron Judge, Dominguez, and possibly Jones by Opening Day 2026.

Tough Decisions Ahead

The timing could not be more complicated. The Yankees are in the middle of a postseason chase, leaning heavily on Bellinger to deliver at-bats like the one he produced against Boston. Every hit underscores how valuable he is to the lineup and makes his future price tag even steeper.

This isn’t the first time the Yankees have faced a difficult call with a high-priced free agent. They’ve walked away from stars before, opting for organizational depth over paying premium years on the back end of a contract. If Bellinger keeps hitting, though, the pressure from fans to keep him around will only grow louder.

For now, all the Yankees can do is ride his bat as far as it will take them. But the writing may already be on the wall: Cody Bellinger’s run in New York could end after just one season, even if it’s been one of the most impactful additions the team has made in years.

Alvin Garcia Born in Puerto Rico, Alvin Garcia is a sports writer for Heavy.com who focuses on MLB. His work has appeared on FanSided, LWOS, NewsBreak, Athlon Sports, and Yardbarker, covering mostly MLB. More about Alvin Garcia

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