Kyle Tucker's decision to sign with the Dodgers has potentially set the stage for a bidding war between the New York Yankees and New York Mets for free agent Cody Bellinger. The Yankees have identified Bellinger as their top offseason priority, with the Mets also expressing interest. This situation arises after the Mets lost Pete Alonso to the Orioles and failed to acquire Tucker.
With only Bellinger and Bo Bichette remaining as significant free agent bats, and rumors suggesting the Phillies are pursuing Bichette, Bellinger appears to be the Mets' most viable option. The Mets have the financial flexibility, as evidenced by their previous offer to Tucker, to pursue Bellinger, who could fill needs in the outfield and at first base following the departures of Brandon Nimmo and Alonso.
Bellinger, represented by Scott Boras, is reportedly seeking a seven-year contract, while the Yankees have offered $155 million over five years, including two opt-outs to make the deal more attractive. Bellinger's continued free agency suggests no other team has surpassed the Yankees' offer, leaving an opening for the Mets to potentially intervene. Ultimately, at least one of the Yankees, Mets, or Blue Jays is likely to miss out on signing either Bellinger or Bichette, potentially forcing them to explore trade options for other hitters.