The New York Yankees are unwilling to engage in a bidding war for free-agent outfielder Cody Bellinger and are prepared to let the 30-year-old sign elsewhere, reports the Newark Star-Ledger’s Bob Klapisch.
New York considers its previous proposal to Bellinger – a five-year, $160-million contract with two opt-outs – to be a fair deal, Klapisch adds.
Bellinger and the Yankees have been negotiating a new pact for most of the winter, with the free agent’s camp reportedly rejecting a five-year, $155-million offer before continuing discussions with New York last week.
Both sides have reportedly explored options in case a deal can’t be reached. Bellinger has been linked to the San Francisco Giants and the Los Angeles Dodgers, though the Dodgers’ reported interest came before they agreed to a deal with outfielder Kyle Tucker.
Klapisch also mentions the New York Mets as a potential option for Bellinger. The Mets are on the hunt for an outfielder after trading Brandon Nimmo to the Texas Rangers.
Bellinger entered free agency following a terrific 2025 season with the Bronx Bombers, slashing .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs while playing terrific outfield defense.