Cody Bellinger, newly acquired by the New York Yankees from the Chicago Cubs, reminisced about his early World Series experiences at the old Yankee Stadium, where his father, Clay Bellinger, played a part in the 1999 and 2000 championship teams.
Cody Bellinger’s introduction to baseball’s grandest stage began at a tender age, as echoed in his recent reflections. “I have small memories of like the playroom, the kids’ playroom that I would go to during the games,” he shared, recalling his mother’s diligent camcorder recordings that help piece together his childhood experiences at the stadium.
Beyond his youthful memories, Cody served as a batboy during his father’s minor league games, a role he cherished for the proximity it provided to the sport. The opportunity to retrieve bats and participate in batting practice left a lasting impression on the young Bellinger.
After emerging as the National League Rookie of the Year with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Cody’s career trajectory experienced fluctuations due to injuries. Despite notable performance dips, his potential remained undisputed. In 2023, his tenure with the Cubs showcased a remarkable resurgence, boasting a .307 average with 29 home runs and 97 RBIs. This performance facilitated his move to the Yankees, a significant addition for the team, which is in the midst of retooling following the loss of Juan Soto to the Mets.
Clay Bellinger’s contributions to the Yankees during his tenure included pivotal moments such as catching Todd Zeile’s drive off Mariano Rivera in the 2000 World Series. Cody’s recent acquisition by the Yankees has stirred excitement within the Bellinger family. “It is truly wild,” Cody remarked, acknowledging his father’s controlled excitement about the news.
As Cody anticipates his role with the Yankees, his versatility in the field stands as a significant asset. Learning from former Dodgers teammate Kiké Hernández, he expressed readiness to play wherever needed, whether in the outfield or at first base. This adaptability is poised to benefit the Yankees’ strategic alignments, especially given the stadium’s dimensions and upcoming games at Steinbrenner Field.
Cody Bellinger’s experience and left-handed hitting style offer promising prospects for taking advantage of Yankee Stadium’s short right-field porch. His anticipation to play with teammates like Aaron Judge and Jasson DomÃnguez suggests a dynamic outfield for the Yankees.
Cody Bellinger’s journey to the New York Yankees not only marks a personal milestone but also evokes cherished familial memories associated with Yankee Stadium. His readiness to contribute at multiple positions underscores his value to the team as they aim to enhance their competitive stance in the upcoming seasons.
