Cody Bellinger set to decline $25M option as Yankees prepare for fierce bidding war with Mets
Cody Bellinger’s decision to opt-out of the final year of his contract with the New York Yankees seems all but certain. Since his offseason trade from the Chicago Cubs, expectations have soared for the outfielder. Unless he faced an unexpected downturn, the likelihood of him testing free agency was always high.
Potential Fit with the Mets
Rumblings from industry insiders, including Jon Heyman, suggest that the New York Mets could emerge as a strong contender to sign Bellinger if he opts out. The Mets have made a habit of acquiring talent from their cross-town rivals, the Yankees, and Bellinger could well be the next name added to their roster. Heyman noted, “At age 30, he’s hitting the market a third time, but the Yankees look like a great marriage. Yankees, Mets.”
For the Yankees, the future of Bellinger is complex. While some may question whether he fits into their long-term vision, particularly with a wave of outfield prospects on the horizon, there’s a compelling argument for him to take on the role of the team’s first baseman.
Market Value and Expectations
Jeff Passan from ESPN highlights Bellinger’s looming free agency, emphasizing that he will be one of the most sought-after players once he declines his $25 million player option, which includes a $5 million buyout. Passan anticipates that Bellinger is on track for a monumental payday, potentially exceeding nine figures. He remarked, “Cody Bellinger, Yankees, outfielder: At 30, Bellinger will be one of the best bats on the market when he turns down his $25 million player option. He’s on pace to put up his most home runs and RBIs since his 2019 NL MVP campaign and will seek nine figures this winter.”
The Yankees’ Dilemma
As the offseason approaches, the Yankees face crucial decisions regarding their roster. Letting go of Bellinger, especially after he has demonstrated his capability to perform in the high-pressure environment of New York, seems counterproductive. His ability to thrive in such a spotlight adds significant value to his potential contract, making him a player worth retaining, even at a premium price.
In a landscape filled with uncertainty, one thing is clear: Cody Bellinger is poised to make a significant impact on the market, and both the Yankees and Mets will be watching closely.
