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11h ago

Yankees Prioritize Cody Bellinger in Free Agency With Dodgers Emerging as Rival

Rival valuations sharpen New York's decision on Bellinger versus Kyle Tucker.

BALTIMORE, MD - APRIL 28: The New York Yankees logo shown on a ball bag during batting practice prior to a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 28, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 08: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees in action against the Toronto Blue Jays in game four of the American League Division Series at Yankee Stadium on October 08, 2025 in New York City. The Blue Jays defeated the Yankees 5-2. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 07: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees fails to catch a ball hit by Daulton Varsho #5 of the Toronto Blue Jays (not pictured) during the third inning in game three of the American League Division Series at Yankee Stadium on October 07, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Jon Heyman reports the Yankees have made Bellinger their priority and that he is open to returning, though talks are not expected to wrap quickly.
  • The Dodgers are being discussed as a potential bidder to reunite with the former MVP given their outfield needs.
  • Jim Bowden projects Bellinger at roughly six years and $168 million, while separate analysis suggests the Mets could explore a deal near five years and $150 million.
  • Bowden ranks Kyle Tucker as the top free agent with a forecast near 10 years and $427–$429 million, highlighting a far costlier path the Yankees have been linked to.
  • Bellinger boosted his market with a 2025 Yankees season worth about 5 WAR, hitting .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs and providing standout defense.