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By Drew VonScio
Contributing Sports Writer
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The New York Yankees know their outfield is going to be a major priority this offseason. With Cody Bellinger set for free agency and Trent Grisham possibly on his way out (if he declines the qualifying offer), the Bronx Bombers know they have to add to it this winter through free agency or by trade.
Center field is the main position of worry for the Yankees with Jasson Dominguez penciled in for left field and Aaron Judge in right. According to MLB insider Jeff Passan, there is one solution that makes perfect sense for the Yankees.
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"The Yankees have the makings of a very good team in 2026," Passan wrote for ESPN. "While the bullpen unquestionably needs an overhaul, the biggest hole -- particularly if Trent Grisham doesn't accept the qualifying offer -- is center field. And there's someone who has proven his New York bona fides just waiting to take the position full-time. Re-sign free agent outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger."
Bellinger is predicted to sign a six-year deal in free agency worth $180 million this winter, an average of $30 million per year. The Yankees may not necessarily want to pay $30 million per year for a center fielder, but Bellinger isn't your average center fielder as he has shown he can be one of the most consistent hitters in baseball.
Over his last two seasons, Bellinger has hit 47 home runs with 176 RBI. That production is hard to find in free agency, making him a hot commodity. However, it's also one of the reasons why the Yankees need to pay him to secure his services.
Even though he only played one season with the Yankees, it's clear the team is much better with him in the lineup. There's a significant drop off in the center field market behind Bellinger, meaning general manager Brian Cashman may not want to risk losing the two-time All-Star over a few million dollars.
With the rotation getting healthier next season, bringing back Bellinger would allow the Yankees to make a serious World Series push next season.
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