When Cody Bellinger stepped into that 10-pitch battle with Aroldis Chapman in the ninth inning Saturday, hitting an RBI double in a 5-3 win over Boston, it was more than just a clutch moment. It was proof: he’s been the Yankees’ most impactful player not named Judge — and yes, leaving him off the All-Star team was a misstep.

According to MLB.com, Bellinger made the “Non-All-Star All-Star Team” for 2025, a list of players who didn’t get the midsummer nod but nevertheless deserve credit. He’s hitting .276/.334/.500 this season with 28 homers and 91 RBIs, while playing all three outfield spots with steady defense. On Saturday, he went 2-for-4 with 2 RBIs, including the ninth-inning dagger off Chapman.

Moments like that carry weight in September. Pitchers dread having to face him in high leverage; opposing defenses shift; managers plan lineups around his bat. In head-to-head history vs. Boston, Bellinger has posted about .273 with 4 homers and 8 RBIs in 15 games. His knack for showing up when it matters most makes the All-Star snub all the more glaring.

It’s not the first time he’s been overlooked. In 2023, Bellinger wasn’t an All-Star for the Cubs but still finished 10th in NL MVP voting. The same narrative is building now. Quietly, he’s been the glue of a Yankees lineup searching for support behind Judge.

And here’s the bigger subplot: Bellinger can opt out of his contract this winter. If he does, his combination of left-handed power, positional flexibility, and clutch production will make him one of the most coveted bats on the market. The Yankees have enjoyed his resurgence — but they may soon have to pay for it.

If All-Star voters missed the story in July, they won’t be able to ignore it in October. And come December, the market will make sure of it.