Novel York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger has made a firm commitment to his new team, choosing to forgo participation in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Bellinger, who recently signed a lucrative five-year, $162.5 million contract with the Yankees, explained his decision stems from a desire to fully dedicate himself to bringing a championship to the Bronx.

Focus on the Pinstripes

Bellinger expressed his dedication to the Yankees organization and the Steinbrenner family, stating, I owe it to the Steinbrenner family and the Yankee organization to proceed and give my best foot forward and try and win a championship. He acknowledged his desire to participate in the World Baseball Classic at some point in my career, but believes this year is gonna be the year to concentrate solely on the upcoming MLB season.

This decision mirrors that of Yankees captain Aaron Judge, who previously declined an invitation to the 2023 WBC for similar reasons. Judge will captain Team USA this year, alongside teammate David Bednar.

Early Baseball Experience

While Bellinger has limited international playing experience, he does have a memorable early baseball achievement. In 2007, he played in the Little League World Series, coached by his father, Clay Bellinger, a former Yankees utility player.

Yankees Opening Day Lineup

The Yankees are gearing up for their 2026 season opener against the San Francisco Giants on March 25th. Here’s the projected lineup:

• Trent Grisham | CF
• Aaron Judge | RF
• Cody Bellinger | LF
• Ben Rice | 1B
• Giancarlo Stanton | DH
• Jazz Chisholm Jr. | 2B
• Austin Wells | C
• Jose Caballero | SS
• Ryan McMahon | 3B
• Max Fried | LHP (Opener)

Yankees Rotation to Start the Season

• Max Fried – Wednesday, March 25 at SF
• Cam Schlittler – Friday, March 27 at SF
• Will Warren – Saturday March 28 at SF
• Ryan Weathers – Monday, March 30 at SEA
• Max Fried – Tuesday, March 31 at SEA

Bench Depth

The Yankees bench will consist of Randal Grichuk (OF), Paul Goldschmidt (1B), JC Escarra (C), and Amed Rosario (UTIL). Oswaldo Cabrera has been assigned to the minor leagues.

The Yankees have officially informed Randal Grichuk he has made the team.

The Yankees bench to begin the season:

OF Randal Grichuk
1B Paul Goldschmidt
C JC Escarra
UTIL Amed Rosario

Case to be made Here’s the Yankees best bench in the last decade.

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