Cody Bellinger won the Ted Williams All-Star Game MVP award on July 15, 2026, delivering a bases-loaded, two-out RBI single against Alex Sanchez in the first inning to earn the honor. "Dad's the Ted Williams All-Star Game MVP, which has a nice ring to it," Bellinger said during the post-game press conference.
Bellinger noted that the path back to the All-Star Game was not straightforward, stating that "health, performance, it all has to come together." He said he first appeared in the All-Star Game in 2017 at age 21 during his rookie year in Miami, and that he was in the game two of his first three seasons in the big leagues before a long absence. Bellinger added that he was 23 years old the last time he appeared before this one, and is now 31.
On the key at-bat itself, Bellinger explained the approach: "bases loaded two outs, I just try to keep it simple. Single up the middle." He also mentioned that Bobby had a lengthy at-bat directly in front of him, seeing what Bellinger estimated as eight pitches, which helped set up the situation. With the MVP, Bellinger joins Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, and Giancarlo Stanton as Yankees players to win the All-Star Game MVP award.
Bellinger also praised teammate Ben, stating he "put the world on notice" at the Home Run Derby and called him a smart player who has had a tremendous 2026 season. On wearing the Yankees uniform, Bellinger acknowledged, "wearing this jersey I feel proud wearing it. It comes with a lot." He added that baseball "is the craziest game in the world" and that the key is to keep putting your best foot forward every day.
At the podium, Bellinger introduced his youngest daughter, Si, to the room in a lighthearted moment before the press conference concluded. Looking ahead, Bellinger said he plans to take an off day before refocusing on July 17, when the Los Angeles Dodgers come to New York, with the stated goal of winning the division and the World Series.