Batting .272 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs, Cody Bellinger was impressive in 2025. The outfielder played a starring role in helping the New York Yankees qualify for the playoffs.
Now a free agent, Bellinger is one of the most sought-after players on the market. Although several top teams have expressed interest in signing the slugger, the Yankees are considered the favorites to re-sign him.
The Bronx Bombers have been in contact with Bellinger’s camp, even reportedly offering him a five-year deal in the range of $150 million. However, the outfielder has allegedly rejected the offer.
In a video uploaded on his YouTube channel on Tuesday, former Miami Marlins president David Samson, now an analyst, pointed to the major reason that led to negotiations between Bellinger and the Yankees breaking down.
“Do you know why Cody Bellinger hasn’t signed that deal with the Yankees? Because (Bellinger’s agent) Scott Boras promised him more,” Samson said (Timestamp: 0:22). Because Boras said, ‘You are the MVP, you are the bat that everyone needs. I’ve got a binder that says you are the missing piece in the championship board.'”
“Then, you’ve got baseball executives who look at Cody Bellinger and say, ‘Yeah, he was fine. Good season, happy for you. Inconsistent performance. Not young anymore. I’m not betting the ranch on this,'” he added.
In Addition To The Yankees, The Mets And Dodgers Are Also Competing For Cody Bellinger’s Signature
While the New York Yankees are the heavy favorites to sign Cody Bellinger, the New York Mets and the LA Dodgers are also reportedly keeping tabs on the slugger.
Just like the Yankees, the Mets could do well with an addition to their outfield, and Bellinger could provide them with some additional cover at first base due to his versatility.
The Mets are also yet to make a big splash in the market, and their fanbase continues to grow impatient, having already seen the likes of Pete Alonso, Edwin Diaz, and Brandon Nimmo part ways with the team without adequate replacements being made.
For the Dodgers, the outfield was one of their problem areas in 2025, and they could use some reinforcements, as they head into 2026 looking to achieve a historic three-peat. However, their needs are not as severe as those of the two New York clubs.
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