Report: Yankees won't engage in bidding war for Bellinger

The New York Yankees are unwilling to engage in a bidding war for free-agent outfielder Cody Bellinger and are prepared to let the 30-year-old sign elsewhere, reports the Newark Star-Ledger's Bob Klapisch.

New York considers its previous proposal to Bellinger - a five-year, $160-million contract with two opt-outs - to be a fair deal, Klapisch adds.

Bellinger and the Yankees have been negotiating a new pact for most of the winter, with the free agent's camp reportedly rejecting a five-year, $155-million offer before continuing discussions with New York last week.

Both sides have reportedly explored alternative options. Bellinger has been linked to the San Francisco Giants and the Los Angeles Dodgers, though the Dodgers' interest was reported before they agreed to a deal with outfielder Kyle Tucker.

The New York Mets are also a potential option for Bellinger and are interested in signing him to a short-term deal, sources told The Athletic's Will Sammon. The Mets are on the hunt for an outfielder after trading Brandon Nimmo to the Texas Rangers.

Bellinger entered free agency following a terrific 2025 season with the Bronx Bombers, slashing .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs while playing terrific outfield defense.