The New York Yankees are targeting Cody Bellinger as their top outfield free agent, viewing Kyle Tucker as a backup option, according to recent reports. This comes after Trent Grisham accepted a $22.025 million qualifying offer. Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox seek multiple hitters to bolster their offense following the Sonny Gray trade.
As Major League Baseball's offseason heats up ahead of the Winter Meetings in Orlando, several teams are actively pursuing free agents to address roster needs. The Yankees, per the New York Post, see Bellinger as the preferred target due to his lower cost, defensive versatility, and strong performance during his 2025 stint in pinstripes. Tucker, ranked as the top free agent by CBS Sports, remains a viable alternative, but New York's strategy could facilitate a trade involving prospect Jasson Domínguez, who had a solid but bench-limited 2025 season, often sidelined for an outfield featuring Bellinger, Grisham, and Aaron Judge.
In Boston, the Red Sox are prioritizing offensive upgrades after acquiring Sonny Gray, with their 2025 lineup ranking 15th in home runs, according to the Boston Globe. Interest centers on right-handed corner infielders Pete Alonso and Alex Bregman to balance a lefty-heavy batting order and resolve infield uncertainties. The team may add two hitters while potentially trading outfielders like Wilyer Abreu or Jarren Duran, signaling more significant moves ahead.
Over in Milwaukee, contract extension discussions with pitching prospect Jacob Misiorowski have stalled, reports the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. The right-hander, not free-agent eligible until the 2031-32 offseason, represents a long-term investment for the small-market Brewers, though such early deals for players with limited service time are rare—only three instances in the last 15 years, including Aaron Ashby's five-year, $20.5 million pact with Milwaukee.