The New York Mets and Yankees are both pursuing free agent outfielder Cody Bellinger amid a shifting MLB free-agent market. After the Mets signed Bo Bichette following a failed bid for Kyle Tucker, sources indicate New York teams see Bellinger as a key addition. Contract talks remain stalled over years, with Bellinger seeking seven while the Yankees offer five.
The MLB free-agent landscape shifted dramatically in recent days, leaving Cody Bellinger as the top position player available. On Thursday, the Los Angeles Dodgers outbid the Mets to sign outfielder Kyle Tucker to a four-year, $240 million deal, averaging $60 million annually. The Mets quickly pivoted, agreeing to a three-year, $126 million contract with Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette, who will transition to third base despite a crowded infield.
Sources confirm the Mets remain interested in Bellinger, the 30-year-old former National League MVP who won the award with the Dodgers in 2019. After rebounding with the Chicago Cubs in 2023, Bellinger delivered a strong 2025 season for the Yankees, slashing .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs, 98 RBIs, and a 5.1 bWAR over 152 games. His versatility suits multiple positions, including first base, center field, and left field, and he boasts a .929 career OPS in 20 games at Citi Field.
For the Mets, Bellinger's left-handed bat would provide lineup protection for Francisco Lindor, Juan Soto, and Bichette, bolstering their offense after losing Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo. The Yankees, who view him as a second-most valuable player behind Aaron Judge, seek to retain his services for hitting, fielding, and clubhouse presence. General Manager Brian Cashman has called Bellinger a 'great fit' for the team, adding he would suit any club.
Negotiations are at an impasse, with agent Scott Boras pushing for a seven-year deal and the Yankees holding at five years. The Mets have shown flexibility with short-term, high-average-annual-value contracts and could pursue Bellinger opportunistically. As both New York teams eye contention, Bellinger's signing could spark a bidding war reminiscent of last year's Juan Soto pursuit.
