**Breaking News: Player Option Decisions Loom for Cody Bellinger, Alex Bregman, and More**
As the 2025 MLB season barrels towards the postseason, front offices across the league are already gearing up for the upcoming offseason frenzy. The looming player option decisions for some of baseball’s biggest stars have fans and teams alike on edge, waiting to see who will hit the free-agent market this winter.
Just recently, the Kansas City Royals secured right-hander Seth Lugo with a lucrative two-year, $46 million extension, keeping him in the fold through 2027. Lugo’s decision to stay was a surprise twist, as many expected him to test free agency. His commitment to the team and the city of Kansas City speaks volumes about the Royals’ promising future.
With the dust settling on Lugo’s deal, attention now turns to other players with pending option decisions. Player options and opt-outs have become increasingly common in today’s MLB landscape, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the offseason.
Here are the top five player option/opt-out decisions to watch as we head towards the offseason:
**1. Cody Bellinger, Outfielder, New York Yankees**
– Bellinger holds a $25 million player option for 2026, with a $5 million buyout.
– The Chicago Cubs will contribute $2.5 million towards either the option salary or buyout, a detail that won’t affect Bellinger’s decision.
**2. Alex Bregman, Third Baseman, Houston Astros**
– Bregman faces a critical player option decision for the 2026 season.
– With his stellar performance and leadership on the field, Bregman’s choice will have a significant impact on the Astros’ future.
**3. Kris Bryant, Infielder/Outfielder, San Francisco Giants**
– Bryant’s looming option decision adds a layer of uncertainty for the Giants.
– After joining the team mid-season, Bryant’s future in San Francisco hangs in the balance.
**4. Francisco Lindor, Shortstop, New York Mets**
– Lindor’s player option will be closely watched as the Mets look to solidify their roster for the upcoming season.
– The dynamic shortstop’s decision could shape the Mets’ plans for the offseason.
**5. Freddie Freeman, First Baseman, Atlanta Braves**
– Freeman’s impending option decision has Braves fans holding their breath.
– After leading the Braves to a World Series title, Freeman’s future in Atlanta remains a hot topic of discussion.
As the regular season winds down and the postseason race heats up, these player option decisions will be crucial in shaping the landscape of the 2025-2026 MLB offseason. Stay tuned for more updates as these stars weigh their options and chart their paths for the future of baseball.
