Yankees reportedly have Cody Bellinger problem

The New York Yankees have made retaining outfielder Cody Bellinger their top priority this offseason. That may be easier said than done.

ESPN's Buster Posey reported that there is a "sizable" gap between the Yankees offer and Bellinger's contract demands. While the details are unknown, Joel Sherman of the New York Post reported on Sunday that the Yankees made a second offer to Bellinger. 

Bellinger had a strong showing in his 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. Bellinger was also strong defensively, credited with six runs saved in right and four runs saved in left. 

New York Yankees need Cody Bellinger but have plenty of competition

The Yankees desperately need Bellinger's production and versatility. While few players can match Juan Soto's offensive production, Bellinger was an admirable replacement. His defensive versatility is also an asset as the Yankees have questions in center, left and first base.

The Yankees are hardly Bellinger's only suitor. The San Francisco Giants, Chicago Cubs, Philadelphia Phillies and Los Angeles Angels are among the teams that have been linked to the outfielder during the offseason. Depending on how large of a gap exists between the Yankees and Bellinger, he could land elsewhere.

The Yankees reportedly have a backup option in mind should Bellinger depart. However, outfielder Kyle Tucker is also drawing considerable interest from other teams and may sign before Bellinger. The Yankees' offseason plans have been built around bringing Bellinger back, but they may need to find a middle ground soon for that to happen.