Cody Bellinger Emerges as Mets, Yankees Plan B Target

This article takes a look at how the MLB free-agent scene has shifted fast, leaving Cody Bellinger as the most wanted offensive player left. With the big names already signed, the spotlight now lands on a possible bidding war between the New York Yankees and New York Mets.

Both teams have obvious roster gaps and real championship dreams.

The Free-Agent Market Narrows Quickly

This offseason’s been wild—several top bats disappeared from the market in what felt like a blink. When teams locked in stars like Kyle Tucker and Bo Bichette, the pool of elite hitters shrank fast.

Front offices are scrambling. Instead of spreading their bets, everyone’s looking at the last real game-changer: Cody Bellinger.

He’s got power, versatility, and postseason chops that teams crave.

Why Bellinger Stands Alone

With Tucker joining the Dodgers and Bichette heading to the Mets, Bellinger’s now the clear top bat still available. He’s not some backup plan—he’s the main target for plenty of teams.

Yankees See Bellinger as the Missing Piece

The Yankees want Bellinger, and honestly, they kind of need him. After losing Juan Soto, they haven’t had anyone steady to back up Aaron Judge in the order.

Bellinger fits that role almost perfectly. In 2025, he played 152 games for the Yankees and put up:

A Familiar and Comfortable Fit

GM Brian Cashman has openly praised Bellinger’s flexibility and positive vibe in the clubhouse. That stuff matters, especially for a team that’s trying to win right now.

The contract length is the sticking point—New York isn’t thrilled about going beyond five years.

Mets Still Searching for Offensive Stability

Meanwhile, the Mets aren’t out of the race. Missing out on Kyle Tucker stung, and while Bo Bichette brings star power, he doesn’t patch all the lineup holes left by Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo leaving.

The Mets need a true middle-of-the-order bat who can steady the offense for the long haul. Bellinger really does check those boxes.

A Logical Next Move for Queens

The Mets’ front office knows Bichette can’t do it all. Adding Bellinger would round out the lineup and give them coverage in both the outfield and at first base.

They’re under pressure to win now, so just standing still doesn’t seem like an option.

Contract Talks and Boras Factor

Bellinger’s agent, Scott Boras, is reportedly pushing for a seven-year deal. That’s already causing some tension, especially since the Yankees want something shorter.

Still, teams have shown they’ll stretch their budgets when a player is rare and feels essential. The Dodgers did it with Kyle Tucker, so maybe someone bends here too.

A Bidding War Still Looms

With both New York teams circling and plenty of money to spend, a bidding war seems likely. Neither side wants to watch the other grab Bellinger without a fight.

The Verdict: Bellinger Holds All the Leverage

Cody Bellinger heads into this round of free agency with a kind of leverage most players only dream about. His 2019 MVP run with the Dodgers still echoes.

He’s kept up solid production lately, too. Add in his defensive flexibility, and Bellinger stands out as the last big fish in the pond.

Both the Yankees and Mets want him—whether he’s their first choice or a backup plan. The market’s gotten tight, and honestly, it feels like something big is about to drop for New York baseball.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Plan B(ellinger)? Focus shifts with Bichette, Tucker off board