⚡ BREAKING: Yankees Make a Major Move – Submitting a Formal Offer to Star Free Agent, Could This Be the Game-Changing Signing of the Offseason? Fans Are on Edge Waiting for the Final Decision!👇

Cody Bellinger’s Free Agency: Yankees and Mets Continue to Show Interest

As the 2025 MLB season came to a close, it seemed like a foregone conclusion that the New York Yankees would bring back Cody Bellinger. The outfielder had an incredible season, making significant contributions both offensively and defensively. His versatility on the field, coupled with his ability to come through in clutch moments, made him an ideal fit for the Yankees. However, as we move into 2026, it’s surprising that Bellinger has yet to sign with any team. With the offseason now dragging on, the question remains: where will the former MVP go?

The Yankees Make Their Move: Formal Offer Submitted

After a prolonged silence, there finally seems to be some movement on Bellinger’s free agency front. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Yankees have formally submitted an offer to Bellinger this week. While this update provides some much-needed clarity, Heyman did not offer any details about other potential suitors for the 28-year-old slugger.

The timing of the Yankees’ offer is interesting, as many believed the team would be the one to secure Bellinger’s services from the start. With Aaron Judge cemented as the face of the franchise, Bellinger had been seen as a natural fit to partner with the star outfielder in the outfield. If the Yankees are the only team pursuing Bellinger, it could make for an easy reunion. However, there’s still uncertainty surrounding the situation, and fans are left wondering whether other teams have also entered the mix.

Could the Mets Be the Surprise Contender?

One of the most intriguing possibilities in Bellinger’s free-agent saga has been the potential interest from the crosstown rival New York Mets. Throughout the winter, the Mets have been linked to Bellinger, particularly as they look to bolster their run prevention strategy. Under the leadership of President of Baseball Operations David Stearns, the Mets have made moves to enhance their defense, most notably by letting fan-favorite Pete Alonso walk and sign with the Baltimore Orioles.

Bellinger, with his strong defensive metrics, could be exactly what the Mets need to improve their run prevention efforts. In 2025, he finished in the 93rd percentile for Outs Above Average (OAA), a statistic that highlights a player’s defensive range and ability to make impactful plays. His stellar performance wasn’t limited to just one position — Bellinger showcased his versatility by playing every outfield position and even logging a few innings at first base. This type of all-around defensive ability is something the Mets could certainly use, especially as they focus on building a more well-rounded team.

Bellinger’s Strong Defense: A Key Selling Point for the Mets

When it comes to defense, Bellinger doesn’t just pass the eye test; his numbers back up his reputation as a top-tier defender. According to Baseball Savant, Bellinger ranks in the 91st percentile for Arm Value, a stat that measures a player’s ability to make strong, accurate throws. This is another area in which Bellinger excels, making him an asset to any team in need of a reliable and dynamic defender.

For the Mets, who have seen firsthand what Bellinger can do, his skills on defense are hard to ignore. Bellinger’s ability to make highlight-reel plays against the Mets, such as his grand slam earlier in the season and a stunning shoestring catch followed by an immediate throw to first base to nab Francisco Lindor, proved just how much of an impact he can have. As the Mets look to improve their overall team defense, Bellinger is a prime candidate to help them reach their goals.

The Waiting Game: When Will Bellinger Sign?

Despite all the interest in Bellinger, it seems like we’re still in the midst of a waiting game. While the Yankees have made their move, and the Mets have reportedly shown interest, no team has yet managed to lock down the outfielder. The longer this drags on, the more intriguing it becomes to figure out which team will ultimately secure Bellinger’s signature.

Bellinger’s free-agent journey has been anything but predictable, but the conclusion may end up being more straightforward than it initially appears. With the Yankees and Mets at the forefront of the conversation, it’s likely that one of the two New York teams will eventually land the outfielder. The question is: which one will it be, and when will it happen?

As the offseason continues, fans around the league are eagerly awaiting Bellinger’s next move. Will he return to the Yankees, where he has thrived alongside Aaron Judge? Or will he make a surprising switch to the Mets, bolstering their already-strong defense? Whatever the decision, it’s clear that Bellinger will be a key figure for whichever team secures his services in 2026 and beyond.