According to Bob Klapisch of the Newark Star-Ledgerthe Yankees refuse to participate in a bidding war for Bellinger. Klapisch also reported that the Yankees believe their five-year, $160 million offer with a few opt-outs is a fair deal.
Bellinger had a strong performance for the Yankees in 2025. He posted a .272/.334/.480 batting line in his 656 plate appearances, hitting 29 home runs and 25 doubles while stealing 13 bases.
Yankees need Cody Bellinger, but so do several other teams
The Yankees roster is still in turmoil as spring training approaches. Aaron Judge is as close to automatic as possible in right, but the rest of the outfield is a question mark.
The Yankees are counting on Trent Grisham to repeat his career year in center in 2025. Jasson Dominguez struggled in the second half and lost playing time on the left. Ben Rice is nominally listed as the Yankees’ first baseman, but could find himself behind the plate more often if Austin Wells struggles next season.
Bellinger, who is capable of playing all three positions in the outfield and first base, would give the Yankees a more proven option at each of those spots. However, the Yankees aren’t the only team that could use Bellinger.
The New York Mets have openings in center and left, especially since outfielder Brandon Nimmo was traded for second baseman Marcus Semien. The Toronto Blue Jays reportedly offered outfielder Kyle Tucker a 10-year contract worth $350 million before he signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers; they could turn to Bellinger. He would also be a good fit for the San Francisco Giants, as he would once again provide a solid bat and excellent defense as they continue to revamp their roster.
The Yankees need Bellinger if they are serious about competing for a championship. If reports are true that they won’t enter a bidding war for his services, Bellinger could end up signing elsewhere.
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