Cody Bellinger: Yankees turn to the trade market

After the huge signings of Kyle Tucker and Bo Bichette, Cody Bellinger has become the flavor of the day on the free agent market, much to the chagrin of the New York Yankees, who seemed to be alone in the world, or nearly so, in this matter.

But that won't change the Bombardiers' approach to their colt, who have apparently decided not to engage in a bidding war. In fact, according to Brendan Kuty of The Athletic, New York is now turning its attention to the trade market and is ready to move on.

To be clear, the deal was worth between five years and $155 million and $160 million. I should have written “as much as $160 million.” Can't edit since I'm not paying for this.

– Brendan Kuty (@BrendanKutyNJ) January 19, 2026

While the Yankees wait for Bellinger, they've turned their attention to the trade market, so they're ready to move on if they find an offer they like. They're ready to change position if he signs elsewhere. They've kept a keen interest in Milwaukee Brewers starting pitcher Freddy Peralta.

This opens the door to two of the Yankees' rivals, the New York Mets and Toronto Blue Jays.

In the case of the Blue Jays, getting hold of Bellinger would not only improve the Toronto lineup, it would also weaken their biggest threat in the American League's Eastern Division.

Bellinger is an excellent center fielder who can also do a fine job in both corners of the outfield and at first base. For a Blue Jays team that values defense and versatility, he ticks all the boxes.

After seeing their top targets sign elsewhere, the Toronto staff needs to add at least one more impact bat, and Bellinger represents their best chance of doing just that.

But keep an eye on Steve Cohen and the Mets, who could repeat their Bo Bichette ploy and walk away with the honors.

This content was created with the help of AI.