Following a colossal collapse at the conclusion of this season, the New York Mets figure to be be players in the free agency market and they may not have to look too far to find one acquisition.
Pat Ragazzo of SI.com reported, “Don’t be surprised if the Mets are heavily in on the versatile Cody Bellinger in free agency given their need for defense in both centerfield and at first base.”
Ragazzo noted in the same report that the Mets are expected to field trade calls for sometimes center-fielder and second baseman Jeff McNeil, while trade deadline acquisition Cedric Mullins is a free agent. That opens up a big hole at a position of need, one that signing Bellinger would immediately upgrade.
Former MVP joined the across-town Yankees in 2025 and returned to form with 160 hits, 29 home runs, 98 RBI, and 13 stolen bases. His .814 OPS was the third-best of his nine-year career.
Spotrac lists Bellinger’s annual market value at $30.4 million, a price the Mets will be happy to pay at a position of need, especially if they can convince him to leave their Big Apple rivals to do it.
The move would allow the Amazins to maintain outfield consistency while using McNeil, or someone else, at second base without constantly tinkering with the lineup. Considering the offensive struggles that plagued the team down the stretch, that would be hugely beneficial for a team with lofty expectations and payroll.
Prediction: Bellinger stays in New York, signs with the Mets