Mark Hershfield: A Lifelong Dodgers Fan and Cody Bellinger Collector

Speculation is increasing regarding a potential reunion between Cody Bellinger and the Los Angeles Dodgers following the player’s presence in the city during his free agency period.

On November 7, 2025, reports and social media activity confirmed that Bellinger had arrived in Los Angeles. This development occurred during the early days of his free agency, which began after the New York Yankees were eliminated from the playoffs.

Bellinger, who was drafted by the Dodgers in 2013, spent his first six seasons in the major leagues with the franchise. His tenure in Los Angeles included earning National League Rookie of the Year honors in 2017 and the National League MVP award in 2019.

2025 Performance and Statistics

Bellinger’s 2025 campaign with the New York Yankees provided a strong statistical case for his return to Los Angeles. The 30-year-old recorded a .272/.334/.480 slash line, contributing 29 home runs and 98 RBIs.

Advanced metrics further highlight his productivity during the 2025 season:

• A 125 weighted Runs Created Plus (wRC+)
• 4.9 wins Above Replacement (fWAR)
• A .813 On-base Plus Slugging (OPS)
• 13 stolen bases

These figures represent some of his best performance levels since his 2019 MVP season, showcasing a transition from a pure slugger to a contact hitter with a focus on putting the ball in play and reducing strikeouts.

Dodgers Roster Needs

The Los Angeles Dodgers are considering roster adjustments for the 2026 season despite winning two consecutive World Series. The organization has identified specific weaknesses in the outfield, particularly concerning offensive production and defensive decision-making.

The potential for a reunion is driven by several roster factors, including the expected departure of Michael Conforto and uncertainty surrounding the futures of Teoscar Hernandez and Andy Pages.

Jon Heyman of the New York Post noted that Bellinger would be a viable fit because their outfield is the least of their strengths, adding that some members of the Dodgers organization remain fond of the former star.

Beyond his offensive contributions, Bellinger’s elite athleticism and fielding percentages are viewed as a potential significant upgrade for the Dodgers’ outfield. His positional versatility would allow the team to address multiple defensive needs.

While other players like Kyle Tucker have been associated with the Dodgers, reporting suggests that Bellinger’s defense and speed provide a different set of advantages compared to Tucker’s higher offensive ceiling.

Because Bellinger began his career in Los Angeles, he possesses a familiarity with the franchise that could result in a shorter acclimation period than that of another free agent signing.