Introduction

As the offseason continues to unfold, Cody Bellinger, the 2019 NL MVP, remains one of the hottest free agents in Major League Baseball. After a tumultuous couple of years marked by injuries and a disappointing contract phase, Bellinger is poised to secure a lucrative deal as teams search for reliable outfield talent. The question on everyone’s mind is: where will Bellinger ultimately land?

Reflecting on Bellinger’s Career

Ttwo winters ago, Bellinger was one of the 'Boras Four,' a group of high-profile free agents, yet he ended up with a short-term deal with the Chicago Cubs as he waited for the market dynamics to stabilize. This past season, Bellinger had a resurgence, showcasing his skills not just at the plate but also defensively across all three outfield positions. With a healthier 2025 season, missing only ten games and demonstrating strong defensive value, the anticipation for his next contract is at an all-time high.

Potential Landing Spots

As the winter progresses, speculation is rife regarding where Bellinger might sign. Early signs point particularly to two teams: the New York Mets and the New York Yankees.

New York Mets

The Mets have made their intentions clear, seeking to bolster an outfield that was stripped of key players, including Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil. Currently, their projected outfield lacks depth and experience, making Bellinger a logical target. Despite their substantial payroll commitments, owner Steve Cohen’s readiness to spend suggests that they could still present a lucrative offer to secure Bellinger’s services.

New York Yankees

On the flip side, the Yankees have also expressed significant interest in Bellinger. After making two official offers, reports indicate that the Yankees are the team most desperate to close a deal, especially after watching rivals strengthen their rosters. Notably, Bellinger’s past success at Yankee Stadium, where he posted a .909 OPS in 2025, hints at a home-field advantage that could be hard to resist.

Other Teams Eyeing Bellinger

While the Mets and Yankees remain frontrunners, several other teams have shown interest in Bellinger as they look to rebuild or enhance their outfields:

Philadelphia Phillies

The Phillies were once seen as a potential fit for Bellinger due to their evolving outfield situation. However, with the recent signing of Adolis García and a desire to see Justin Crawford develop, they may be less inclined to pursue a significant contract for Bellinger.

Los Angeles Angels

The Angels present another enticing option for Bellinger, especially looking to rejuvenate a faltering outfield. With increasing doubt about their competitiveness next season, they could capitalize on a chance to secure a player who can bolster their lineup significantly.

Pittsburgh Pirates

Additionally, the Pirates are reportedly aiming for aggressive offseason moves, with Bellinger being a prime candidate to address their defensive shortcomings in the outfield. Should they spend the required cash, Bellinger could immediately elevate their team’s performance.

Arizona Diamondbacks

The Diamondbacks, needing to solidify their outfield, face challenges with their current payroll. Bellinger would enhance their lineup, but financial constraints may limit their ability to make a competitive offer.

Will Bellinger Command a Big Deal?

Given what’s at stake, there’s considerable debate over whether Bellinger will receive the mega-deal projected by analysts just a year ago. Factors including injuries, market dynamics, and shifting team priorities could significantly impact the final outcome. If the competition continues brewing between the various suitors, a short-term deal may become more likely. Nevertheless, a bidding war could also see Bellinger fetch a multi-year deal reflective of his value.

Conclusion

The next steps for Cody Bellinger will be critical for his career as he aims to regain a top spot in Major League Baseball. Whether he joins the Yankees or the Mets or takes his talents elsewhere remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his impact on any team will be profound. As negotiations heat up this winter, the decision on Bellinger's future could reshape the landscape of the outfield market going into the new season.