“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 t

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