AL DIVISION SERIES: YANKEES VS RAYS

October 7, 2026

Cody Bellinger

Yankee Stadium

New York Yankees

Pregame 3 Press Conference

THE MODERATOR: Who's got the first question?

Q. Cody, it's obviously win or go home for you guys. Can you just describe what the mindset is heading into tonight?

CODY BELLINGER: Mindset is one game at a time. You know, gotta win today obviously. So you can't look too far ahead, and you gotta put the past behind you.

Q. Is that difficult or easy to do at this time of the year?

CODY BELLINGER: Obviously it's not the ideal situation you want to be in, but at the end of the day, can't control the past. So you gotta look at today and win today.

Q. Cody, what about the way this team is built gives you confidence that you can get out there and win tonight?

CODY BELLINGER: Yeah. Got Max on the mound, back at home, and we're feeling good. So it's not going to be an easy task, but full of confidence, and we gotta go out and win a game today.

Q. Does a team like the Rays that makes so much contact and has speed cause you to be even more on heightened attention and alert in the out field to just be ready for anything?

CODY BELLINGER: You know, I think all of us baseball players, I feel like every pitch you gotta be ready, get a good jump, read the ball and play catch. So I feel like you just gotta be prepared for anything.

Q. What makes them such a challenge the way their lineup is constructed?

CODY BELLINGER: They're a good team. You know, best record in the AL. Obviously we knew that coming in. So another tough one today, and hopefully we come out on top.

Q. Cody, you've played for a few different managers in your career, all different styles. What would you say sets Aaron Boone apart? How would you describe what it's like to play for him?

CODY BELLINGER: Yeah. Boony is a great guy to play for. I've played for four really good managers, in my opinion, and my transition over here was smooth.

It's all about winning here. When you put on this logo, it's all about winning, and we understand that. We understand what comes with the logo, what comes with the history, and he helps present that.

Q. How much of a boost do you expect the home crowd to be tonight?

CODY BELLINGER: Yeah. It's always fun playing here in Yankee stadium. I love the stadium. The fans here are amazing. They're energetic.

We anticipate it to be loud, and obviously want to give them something to cheer for.