The Yankees Could Get Burned in the Cody Bellinger Sweepstakes.
The outfield market this winter has developed slowly, but the lack of movement is beginning to raise concerns for the New York Yankees. Cody Bellinger remains one of the top free agents available, and the Yankees have positioned themselves as strong favorites to bring the former star back to the Bronx. Reports indicate that General Manager Brian Cashman has already submitted multiple offers to the 30-year-old outfielder as the offseason continues.
At first glance, the situation appears ideal for New York. The Yankees seem to be in control, carefully waiting for Bellinger to accept terms while other teams hesitate. Yet the presence of Mets owner Steve Cohen changes everything. In a league where money often speaks louder than logic, assuming the Yankees are destined to win the bidding war could be a risky mistake.
Philadelphia’s silence on major roster moves has mirrored the sluggish pace of the market. However, the Yankees must remain cautious that they are not simply bidding against themselves. History has shown that even when the Yankees look like clear frontrunners, the Mets can unexpectedly enter negotiations and change the dynamic instantly. That threat looms large once again.
Why the Mets Pose the Biggest Risk.
Although teams like the Dodgers could also challenge for Bellinger, the real danger for the Yankees sits much closer to home. The New York Mets have vast financial resources and are still searching for stability in their outfield lineup. Bellinger fits perfectly into what the Mets need, offering exceptional defensive flexibility. He has the ability to play elite-level defense at any of the three outfield positions as well as first base, making him a valuable all-around player.
Offensively, Bellinger has proven he can still produce at a high standard. During the 2025 season, he recorded a batting line of .272 with an OPS that reflected consistent power. He added 29 home runs and 98 RBIs, showing he remains a reliable middle-of-the-order hitter. One of his most impressive improvements has been his plate discipline. With a career-best strikeout rate of just 13.7%, Bellinger demonstrated that he has matured into a more complete and contact-oriented batter.
This evolution makes him exactly the type of hitter teams covet. His 125 wRC+ underlines that he contributes serious value without inflating strikeout totals. For the Mets, adding such a player would lengthen their lineup and give them a clear identity in the outfield.
A Deal the Yankees Cannot Afford to Lose.
The Yankees have watched Bellinger thrive in New York before, and that familiarity gives them confidence. But comfort alone will not secure the contract. If the Mets decide to step in aggressively with a blockbuster offer, the Yankees’ patient strategy could collapse at the worst possible time.
As the market grows more competitive, the pressure increases on Brian Cashman. Waiting out the market may have worked so far, but the Yankees are reaching the point where hesitation becomes dangerous. Losing Cody Bellinger to another club would be painful. Losing him to the Mets would be an offseason disaster that overshadows every other decision the Yankees have made.
