Are the Mets a clear favorite for Cody Bellinger after Yankees back away?

The New York Yankees’ pursuit of star OF/1B Cody Bellinger has stalled, brutally matching their tepid offseason. Recently thought to be favorites to retain the versatile former MVP, ESPN’s Buster Olney reported that the Yankees no longer expect to re-sign him. Bellinger is undoubtedly a hot commodity on the market, but where does his market stand?

The Boston Red Sox, who once seemed to be a fit, had a gap to fill at first base, one that was remedied with the trade for Willson Contreras. Boasting an outfield packed with left-handed hitters, Bellinger is no longer a fit. The Chicago Cubs have recently engaged with him, but having signed Alex Bregman to a five-year, $175 million contract, it isn’t clear if they will be willing to meet Bellinger’s demands. In recent days, the San Francisco Giants and Los Angeles Dodgers have also checked in. However, other than the Yankees, only one other team has been frequently linked to Bellinger.  

Bellinger’s fit in Queens 

The New York Mets have an extraordinary war chest of cash to spend and a clear need for offense. They have also been considered frontrunners in the race for Bellinger, with strong interest having been reported by insiders numerous times. Before the Yankees bombshell, MLB insider Jon Heyman said it was likely that he remains in New York, either with the pinstripes or the Mets, when discussing interest from the Cubs, Dodgers and Giants.

Of Bellinger’s remaining suitors, the Mets are a perfect match. The Amazins came close to reaching the World Series in 2024, but despite adding Juan Soto, they missed the postseason entirely in 2025. And further damaging their strength, the Mets lost Pete Alonso this offseason, a loss that leaves a sizable gap behind Soto.

Bellinger might not be able to replicate Alonso’s lofty production, but in the Polar Bear’s absence, he would be an integral part of the lineup and keep the Mets competitive. Bellinger hit .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs last season. He would fit perfectly in centerfield or at first since the Mets are desperately lacking at both positions.

Where the Mets stand in the market for outfielders 

While a move like this would make sense, calling the Mets the favorites for Bellinger might be premature. The Mets have also shown interest in Kyle Tucker, who is younger and has a higher ceiling at the plate. Bellinger’s demands may also be a problem as he seeks more than the five-year, $30 million AAV deal the Yankees reportedly offered him, especially since the Mets have hesitated to spend after signing Soto.  

Though we’re in January, it’s still too early to gauge Bellinger’s market, which will develop if/when Tucker signs first. But given last season’s disappointment and their key losses this offseason, it would be hard to imagine New York entering the season without making a splash.