The New York Yankees have decided against entering a bidding war for free agent outfielder Cody Bellinger, sticking to their five-year, $160 million proposal with two opt-outs. Meanwhile, the New York Mets retain interest in Bellinger following their signing of Bo Bichette, preferring a short-term, high-value deal. Bellinger, who hit 29 home runs in 2025 with the Yankees, remains the top unsigned position player.
Major League Baseball's offseason nears its end with just over three weeks until pitchers and catchers report, but negotiations for Cody Bellinger continue to captivate. The 30-year-old outfielder, who opted out of a three-year, $80 million contract with the Chicago Cubs, delivered a strong 2025 season with the Yankees, batting .272 with 29 home runs, 98 RBI, and a 5.1 WAR. His defensive versatility and left-handed power made him a perfect fit in Yankee Stadium, where he slashed .302/.365/.544 at home.
According to reports from Bob Klapisch of the Newark Star-Ledger, the Yankees view their offer—five years, $160 million, including two opt-outs—as fair and are prepared to let Bellinger walk if a rival like the Mets outbids them. This stance echoes lessons from last winter's Juan Soto pursuit, where the Yankees fell short by $15 million to the Mets' $765 million deal. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has emphasized internal options, potentially turning to prospects Jasson Domínguez and Spencer Jones in left field, or adding a platoon partner like Austin Hays.
The Mets, fresh off signing Bo Bichette to a three-year, $126 million pact on Friday, see Bellinger as a solution to their outfield needs after losing players like Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo. Will Sammon of The Athletic reports that New York prefers another short-term arrangement similar to past deals, though Bellinger's willingness for such a structure remains unclear. Owner Steve Cohen's willingness to spend aggressively positions the Mets as a serious threat.
Bellinger's camp, led by agent Scott Boras, has pushed for a seven-year commitment, creating the main impasse. With spring training approaching, the two New York teams' rivalry could intensify, but the Yankees' resolve might force Bellinger to decide soon.
