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For the latest updates and discussions about free agent outfielders and first basemen, including Cody Bellinger and his potential return to either the New York Yankees or Mets, keep reading.
January 2nd, 5:22 PM
As the offseason progresses, reports indicate the Yankees made a formal offer to Cody Bellinger earlier this week, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. It’s no surprise since Bellinger is the Yankees’ primary offseason target. However, Heyman also points out that the Mets remain a contender in this tense, week-long standoff between the two New York teams. Other teams linked to Bellinger are the , where he started his career, and the Giants. Heyman also names the Blue Jays as a possible destination if they fail to secure stars like Kyle Tucker, Alex Bregman, or Bo Bichette.
December 26th, 9:50 AM
The activity around player moves slowed during the holidays, but the Yankees remain optimistic about re-signing Bellinger. According to Jon Heyman, reuniting with the veteran outfielder is still a top priority in the Bronx, and the team is confident he won’t leave for Queens to join the Mets. Yankees captain Aaron Judge is reported to be very supportive of securing Bellinger long-term, recalling the star’s impressive performance last season when he batted .272 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs during his one-year stint with the team. While his free agent market timeline is uncertain, Bellinger is projected to command around $30 million annually over six years, making him a hot commodity for championship teams. The Yankees may have to work hard to convince him to stay.
December 14th, 7:35 PM
The San Francisco Giants have made it clear they don’t intend to invest nine figures this offseason but remain engaged in the player market. Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reports the Giants are “evaluating the situation,” with Bellinger still at the top of their list. Last season, Bellinger played a key role for the Yankees with notable stats including 29 homers, 98 RBIs, a .272 batting average, and an OPS of .813, showcasing his valuable contribution both offensively and defensively.
December 4th, 11:42 AM
While many teams show interest, the Yankees continue to prioritize Bellinger, making considerable efforts to bring him back, per Jon Heyman. Other teams in the running include the Mets, Phillies, Angels, and . ESPN’s Jeff Passan previously noted that signing Bellinger would involve multiple roster moves for the Yankees, possibly requiring them to trade outfielders like Jason Dominguez or promising prospect Spencer Jones. If Bellinger accepts a qualifying offer and re-signs, the Yankees could have an excess of outfielders, especially with players like Trent Grisham on the roster.
Fan Take: This ongoing saga over Cody Bellinger is one of the most captivating offseason stories in baseball right now. His decision will not only shift power dynamics within New York baseball but could also influence team strategies and player careers across the league, making it a must-watch for all fans of the sport.
