Cody Bellinger ’s decision to test the open market officially begins the New York Yankees’ offseason storyline . The former MVP declined his $25 million player option for 2026, finalizing an expected free agency move that reshapes the Yankees’ roster outlook and defines the early tone of MLB’s upcoming free agency market.

The New York Post Sports’ Jon Heyman took to his X (formerly known as Twitter) to break the news, confirming one of the most anticipated moves of the offseason.

“Cody Bellinger has opted out.”

The announcement instantly sparked league-wide reaction, positioning Bellinger as the first major domino of the offseason and setting the stage for what’s expected to be one of baseball’s busiest free-agent markets.

The 30-year-old slugger’s decision follows a resurgent 202

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