The New York Mets are gearing up for an exciting offseason with several significant changes on the horizon. A key story to follow is the potential move of outfielder Cody Bellinger, who is set to opt out of his contract post-season and enter free agency. This decision follows his solid performance during the previous season with the New York Yankees, where he showcased his capabilities, making him a coveted player on the market.
According to reports, Bellinger, 30, is forgoing a $25 million player option for next season. His impressive rebound year in New York is expected to attract considerable attention from multiple teams looking to enhance their rosters. As noted by ESPN’s Jorge Castillo, Bellinger’s upcoming free agency is anticipated to yield a lucrative multi-year contract due to his performance last season.
The conversation around Bellinger’s value also contrasts with fellow free agent Kyle Tucker. While Tucker remains a top-tier player, Bellinger offers unique advantages, such as flexibility in the field, being able to play both center field and first base, and not being subject to a qualifying offer which could complicate negotiations for Tucker. MLB analyst Jon Heyman highlights that Bellinger has outperformed Tucker in several respects, making him an attractive option for teams, especially the Mets.
Analysts like Erik Beaston from Bleacher Report suggest the Mets may pursue Bellinger aggressively, given Spotrac’s assessment of his market value at approximately $30.4 million. This aligns perfectly with a critical need for the Mets, allowing them to solidify their outfield and maintain lineup consistency amidst their recent offensive struggles.
Acquiring Bellinger could not only fortify the Mets’ batting order but also significantly enhance their outfield defense, positioning the team as serious contenders for a World Series title. As they continue to build a competitive roster, the possibility of Bellinger donning a Mets uniform certainly adds a layer of intrigue to the upcoming season in New York.