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“I had an unbelievable time putting on this uniform. Yankee Stadium, the fans, the organization, the culture that these guys have created in this locker room. It’s special,” these were the words of first baseman Cody Bellinger when asked about his time with the Yankees, making a great case that he wasn’t going anywhere. But, he made an announcement that shook the Bronx—he opted for free agency. And just like that, the entire trajectory of the Yankees’ lineup in which Aaron Judge was confident shifted into uncertainty. Bellinger joined the Yankees on a one-year deal worth $27.5M after the Cubs traded him to make room in their roster. Throughout this season, he proved his worth in pinstripes. He had an OPS of .814 with 29 HR and 98 RBIs. His performance confirmed the Yankees’ decision to sign him, making him seem like a natural fit. Aaron Judge agreed, expressing his support back in October. The captain said, “We’ve got a lot of winning players in here. A lot of guys that played the game the right way and helped make this team, who it is. And, you mentioned a couple right there with Grisham and Bellinger. Two guys who had incredible years. It was fun to watch them. Fun to learn from them, and hopefully we can run them back and see what happens.” ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad But that running might not happen as Bellinger surprised everyone with his decision to explore the free market. Since that decision, his former team has re-entered the picture. The Chicago Cubs are gaining traction to bring Bellinger back to Wrigley Field, and there’s an unexpected factor working in their favor. According to Cubs insider Bruce Levine, Bellinger’s wife, Chase Carter, thoroughly enjoyed their time in Chicago. Levine referenced Bellinger’s own words from August: “I loved my time with the Cubs. I made a lot of amazing friends. I have been lucky to play for three amazing organizations—now the journey will continue.” More tellingly, Levine noted that Bellinger specifically mentioned how much his wife enjoyed the Chicago experience during their previous stint together. ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad With two young children, family will weigh heavily on Bellinger’s decision. He and his wife, model and influencer Chase Carter, value stability and home life despite their public careers. Carter’s fond memories of Chicago—and the comfort their family found there—could be the subtle factor that draws Bellinger back to the North Side. And that gap is Kyle Tucker opting for free agency. Read Top Stories First From EssentiallySports Click here and check box next to EssentiallySports Now, here’s where the situation gets truly interesting. ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad Kyle Tucker, the very player whose presence on the Cubs roster initially pushed Bellinger out the door and toward the Yankees, is now himself heading to free agency. And guess what, as per insiders, the Yankees are eyeing him. But why are the Cubs letting Tucker go, especially when he had an amazing season for the clubhouse? Well, his contract of $400M. Meanwhile, Bellinger’s contract is projected at $183M over six years, per SportArc, which aligns with the Cubs’ situation. And his familiarity with the clubhouse makes it more compelling. Aaron Judge and the Yankees faithful may need to accept that the player who fit so seamlessly into their championship puzzle could return to where his wife’s heart apparently remained—Chicago. Or can they still have him? Bellinger keeps the door open in New York Yankees Even though there is still talk about a possible reunion with the Cubs and personal issues are at play, the situation is still changing. The Yankees haven’t shut the door, and Bellinger has kept NYY in the conversation, which means that both sides are carefully considering their next move. Hoch of MLB writes that “Cody Bellinger said he would ‘absolutely’ be open to another season with the Yankees.” Bellinger’s clear answer is important. It shows that his choice isn’t just based on comfort or familiarity, but also on where he thinks he can win. During his time in the Bronx, he seemed to fit in well with the clubhouse, the coaches, and the pressure that comes with wearing the pinstripes. Brian Cashman, the Yankees’ general manager, also made it known his importance in the lineup. Cashman said, “He was an impact player for us.” “I’m glad we got him.” He was one of the many reasons we believed we were capable of great things this year… Indeed, we’d love to have him with our team moving forward.” Bellinger’s 5 WAR this season was said to be the second highest on the Yankees, behind only Aaron Judge. So, his productivity wasn’t just visible; it also filled a true need in a lineup that was predominantly right-handed. That level of balance is hard to find for a club that wants to be in the running for the championship. Only time will tell whether he will stay or not!
