The New York Yankees reportedly continued to discuss a new contract with free agent star outfielder Cody Bellinger over the weekend.
Despite Bellinger being the team’s No. 1 priority during the MLB offseason, the two sides simply haven’t been able to come to terms. There still seems to be a decent distance apart in discussions as well.
With the likelihood increasing that Bellinger could end up leaving the Yankees, the team will need to have fallback options. That is exactly what New York has been starting to look into.
According to a report from MLB insider Jon Heyman of the New York Post on January 12, the Yankees have discussed at least six different alternative options to Bellinger. However, the two sides also have continued talking about a new deal.
“But with Bellinger looking for seven years, the sides are trying to find new ways around the gap over term,” Heyman said.
“The parties spoke through the weekend, but the difference in length (and thus total dollars) is great enough that Bellinger is also weighing alternative teams while the Yankees are considering star free agents Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker while also discussing trades for at least four other position players.”
New York Yankees & Cody Bellinger Are a Perfect Fit for Each Other
It would be unfortunate to see New York and Bellinger part ways. He put together a strong first campaign in the pinstripes and a long-term future would be ideal for both parties.
During the 2025 MLB season with the Yankees, Bellinger hit 29 home runs, drove in 98 RBI, and slashed .272/.334/.480. He produced those numbers in 152 games.
Bellinger clearly enjoyed his season in New York. He has seemingly wanted to get a deal done with the Yankees, but he’s not willing to sacrifice quite as much as they’re currently asking.
Plenty of teams around the league would love to bring Bellinger onboard. Rumors have connected him to a handful of teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants. Before signing Alex Bregman, the Chicago Cubs were also rumored to have interest.
At least the two sides are still trying to work through their differences. There is still a chance a deal could be worked out.
Who Should the Yankees Prioritize If Bellinger Walks?
If Bellinger does end up signing with another team or if New York decides that a deal can’t get done, who should the Yankees prioritize pursuing?
Kyle Tucker would be an electrifying addition for the team. He is one of the best pure bats in baseball and would form a dynamic trio with Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton. The price tag would be high, but he’s worth it.
Bo Bichette is an intriguing option. While Bichette is not great defensively, he would bring an extremely talented bat to the lineup for New York.
Nico Hoerner has been mentioned as a trade target, although the Cubs are currently expected to keep him barring an overwhelming offer. No other names have been reported about who the Yankees could be pursuing via trade.
Expect to hear more rumors about New York in the near future. Bellinger could still be back, but the Yankees are doing their homework on alternatives in case progress can’t be made with him.
Yankees Discussing 6 Alternate Options to Cody Bellinger