After securing the re-signing of Cody Bellinger, the New York Yankees are optimistic about their potential to compete for the championship. General Manager Brian Cashman and manager Aaron Boone have highlighted the acquisitions made by the organization both last summer and in the winter market.
Cashman has openly expressed his confidence in the team’s ability to reach the championship level, and is committed to finding ways to continuously improve. Last week, the Yankees signed Bellinger to a five-year, $162 million contract. He will join teammates Ryan McMahon, Amed Rosario, David Bednar, and Camilo Doval, who finished the 2025 season with the Yankees after being acquired during the summer. With the expected return of star pitcher Gerrit Cole, the team feels prepared for a great season.We added a lot of weapons at the deadline and they are all finding their proper roles and how to be utilized and deployed. Also experiencing the growing pains of competing in the New York arena and exposure to postseason baseball.
Brian Cashman
Bellinger emphasized the importance of playing as a team and the excitement of competing with his teammates again. Cashman highlighted that, although the core of the team is similar to that of the end of last season, it is not identical to the one that started. Bellinger’s return strengthens the squad, especially due to his ability to play at first base and in the outfield. Boone acknowledged that there will be more competition for positions for players like Spencer Jones and Jasson Dominguez, along with those who arrived last summer.I feel really good about that. Obviously, it might not be what everyone wants to hear, but I love the group we have. We had a special unit. We had great chemistry that I don’t think you can understand unless you’re inside the clubhouse.
Cody Bellinger
Despite the loss to the Toronto Blue Jays in the American League Division Series, the Yankees have chosen to maintain consistency in their roster instead of making massive changes, recognizing the unpredictable nature of the postseason.We’re going to start the season with a lot of those guys in place, so I think our flexibility on the roster is better. It’s not a guarantee, but I’m really excited to go to battle with this group. We have a chance to be really good.
Aaron Boone
Boone added that, although they were surpassed in the divisional round, they trust their potential to achieve better results in the future. Bellinger confirmed that he will not participate in the World Baseball Classic, preferring to focus on preparation for the regular season during spring training. This is seen as a positive thing for the Yankees, who are seeking their first World Series title since 2009.A series, for better or for worse, is not going to define what we think our capabilities are. Postseason baseball, you have to bring your best baseball every series, and if you don’t, you go home. It doesn’t mean we’re not capable of great things. We just didn’t get the job done against the Blue Jays.
Brian Cashman
It’s going to be a different mix, a different feeling, it’s a different year and we’re looking for a different result, that is, a better result. Stay tuned and see where it takes us.
Brian Cashman
