As the New York Yankees refuse to escalate their five-year, $160 million offer to free agent outfielder Cody Bellinger—who hit .272 with 29 home runs in 2025 for them—the Toronto Blue Jays see an opportunity to upgrade their roster and weaken an AL East rival. Following earlier reports of short-term Mets interest, Toronto's potential pursuit adds fluidity to Bellinger's market.
Cody Bellinger's free agency saga continues with less than a month until spring training. Building on the Yankees' firm stance against a bidding war—as detailed in prior coverage—the situation opens doors for other suitors.
The Blue Jays, who missed out on Kyle Tucker (10 years, $240 million with the Dodgers) and Alex Bregman (five years, $175 million with the Cubs), could benefit from signing Bellinger. Former MLB executive Steve Phillips said on TSN: "Imagine stealing Bellinger out from under the Yankees, and the Yankees at that point would have nowhere else to go." This aligns with Bellinger's preference for a seven-year deal, matching Toronto's appetite for long-term commitments shown in their Tucker bid. However, MLB insider Jim Bowden noted on the Foul Territory podcast that the Jays lack strong interest, highlighting contradictory reports.
Represented by Scott Boras, Bellinger seeks more years and higher AAV than the Yankees' $30.4 million projection. With the Mets favoring a short-term deal post their signing of Bo Bichette, Toronto represents a key wildcard in driving up offers after Tucker's market-resetting pact.
