New York Mets Eye Cody Bellinger After Yankees Seem to Back Off

As the 2026 MLB offseason heats up, the New York Mets continue to reshape their roster with a focus on adding proven talent and addressing key holes. Queens has already seen significant turnover, with familiar faces departing and new acquisitions arriving from across town, including players who spent last season with the New York Yankees.

Last offseason, the Mets made headlines by acquiring superstar Juan Soto on a staggering 15-year, $765 million contract, signaling their commitment to chasing championships and reshaping the franchise’s identity. This winter, they have already bolstered their bullpen by adding two former Yankees relievers, Devin Williams and Luke Weaver, and the organization remains linked to another high-profile target: free-agent outfielder Cody Bellinger.

Bellinger, a left-handed power-hitting outfielder, enjoyed a productive 2025 campaign with the Yankees. Over 152 games, he posted a .272 batting average, .334 on-base percentage, and .813 OPS, while tallying 29 home runs and 98 RBIs. Beyond his offensive contributions, Bellinger provided defensive versatility, capable of playing all three outfield spots at a high level. That combination of power, athleticism, and defensive reliability has made him one of the most coveted free agents on the market, particularly for a Mets team looking to fill the void left by recent departures.

On January 1, MLB insider Mark Feinsand reported, “The Mets have been among the teams most often connected to Bellinger, and after trading Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil, the need for an outfielder (or two) is clear.” Indeed, the departures of Nimmo and McNeil left two prominent holes in the lineup, creating an urgent need for a proven offensive presence who can contribute immediately. Bellinger fits that description perfectly.

The Mets may have received a boost in their pursuit over the weekend. According to ESPN’s Buster Olney, the Yankees are “now operating under the assumption that Bellinger is going to sign elsewhere” (via Bryan Hoch of MLB.com). With their primary competition possibly stepping aside, the Mets are in a strong position to make a serious push for one of baseball’s most dynamic bats.

Bellinger’s appeal goes beyond his 2025 numbers. Over nine major-league seasons, he has collected an MVP award, Rookie of the Year honors, two All-Star selections, a Gold Glove, two Silver Sluggers, and a World Series championship with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He has also played for the Chicago Cubs and the Yankees, demonstrating an ability to thrive in high-pressure environments and under the national spotlight. For a Mets team that fell short of expectations in 2025, Bellinger offers not just offensive production but postseason experience and leadership.

Acquiring Bellinger would provide the Mets with immediate lineup stabilization. His left-handed power balances the team’s overall batting mix, and his ability to play multiple positions gives manager Buck Showalter flexibility when setting lineups or managing injuries. With Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil gone, Bellinger’s bat could serve as the cornerstone around which the Mets build their 2026 offensive strategy.

Financial considerations will naturally play a role in the process. Bellinger, coming off a strong season, is expected to command a significant multi-year deal on the open market. While exact terms remain uncertain, the Mets have shown a willingness to make bold moves in recent years, demonstrated by their acquisition of Soto and other key veterans. With the Yankees reportedly stepping back, the Mets’ front office has a window to negotiate aggressively without losing ground to a rival.

The Mets’ pursuit of Bellinger also underscores a broader organizational philosophy: pairing elite young talent with proven veterans to create a competitive core capable of sustained success. By complementing Juan Soto with a player of Bellinger’s caliber, New York would address its pressing outfield needs while signaling to the league and fans that the team is serious about returning to postseason contention.

Timing will be critical. The 2026 season is just a couple of months away, and adding Bellinger now would give him time to acclimate to his new team, adjust to the ballpark, and participate fully in spring training. For the Mets, moving quickly could be the difference between signing a top-tier free agent and watching him go elsewhere.

In conclusion, Cody Bellinger represents a rare opportunity for the Mets to secure an impact player who can address both immediate needs and long-term goals. With the Yankees possibly stepping aside and the Mets’ roster in transition, Queens may be well-positioned to land one of the league’s most productive and versatile outfielders. If negotiations progress successfully, Bellinger could become a central figure in New York’s 2026 lineup, providing the power, experience, and defensive flexibility necessary to return the Mets to playoff relevance.