Yankees reportedly make sizable offer to Cody Bellinger

The New York Yankees have prioritized bringing outfielder Cody Bellinger back to the Bronx this season. The Yankees have reportedly made several offers to Bellinger, although a gap remains in their negotiations.

According to Brendan Kuty of The Athletic, the Yankees' most recent offer had an average annual value of more than $30 million per year. While the exact length of that contract remains unknown, Bellinger and his representatives are reportedly looking for a seven-year deal. 

Contract length could be a problem. Jon Morosi from MLB Network reported that the Yankees may not want to go beyond four or five years on a new contract for Bellinger. That difference could be the gap between the two sides as they continue to negotiate.

Yankees, Cody Bellinger a perfect match going forward

Bellinger had a solid first season with the Yankees. He posted a .272/.334/.480 batting line in his 656 plate appearances, hitting 29 homers and 25 doubles while stealing 13 bases. His defensive versatility was an asset as he saw time at all three outfield spots and first base.

That versatility is important for a team with as many question marks as the Yankees. Ben Rice is expected to be the primary first baseman, but he will also see time behind the plate and as the designated hitter. Jasson Dominguez fell off in the second half, losing playing time during the Yankees playoff hunt. Trent Grisham had a career year and is back on the qualifying offer. Retaining Bellinger would provide insurance in each of those spots.

If the Yankees win out and Bellinger agrees to a five-year deal, it may be similar to what first baseman Pete Alonso and designated hitter/outfielder Kyle Schwarber received. Both players signed five-year contracts of their own, with Alonso receiving $155 million from the Orioles and Schwarber getting $150 million to remain in Philadelphia. If the length of the contract is the sticking point, putting the average annual value above what Alonso received may get Bellinger to put the pen to the paper.