Could a Two-Time Silver Slugger Award Winner Be a Fit with the Mets?
With both New York baseball teams eliminated from the playoffs, their fans have already turned their attention over to the offseason. Much like last offseason, it is possible that their paths cross over an all-star outfielder, and that player is Cody Bellinger. The Yankees are looking to retain the services of the former National League MVP, and the Mets are hoping to shore up their defense in the corner outfield or find a replacement centerfielder. Bellinger’s defense versatility seems to be an ideal match for the Mets.
In a world where the Mets bring back Pete Alonso, Bellinger could additionally split time on the infield dirt at first base. This would allow the Mets to get Alonso at-bats at the DH spot, improving their defense in the process. Bellinger could also do the same in right field, allowing Juan Soto to play some days at DH as well. Both of those two players are rated as some of the worst defenders at their respective positions. Replacing them defensively with an above-average defender in Bellinger would be a huge swing. Additionally, he could split time in the center waiting for one of the Mets’ top prospects to take over or with incumbent Tyrone Taylor. This would look like Bellinger playing 50 games in right field, 50 at first base, 30 in center, and 15 in left field, filling in for Brandon Nimmo on occasion.
This begs the question: if Bellinger is such an asset, why would the Yankees let him walk out the door? The answer is that it depends. Former top prospect Jasson Dominguez is destined for more playing time, and the Yankees would want to create an avenue for this to happen. Especially if they bring in free agent outfielder Kyle Tucker. Another factor at play is the health of Aaron Judge as he gets older, especially considering the elbow problems he had this past season. If the Yankees front office sees Judge making a transition to first base or DH in the next few years, they could be more inclined to sign a long-term contract with another outfielder, such as Bellinger.
Just those factors make it an extremely complicated situation. Plus, adding in the fact that Pete Alonso could leave the Mets, and maybe even sign with the Yankees, adds extra confusion. Looming over it all is Munetaka Murakami. Who could potentially be in play for both teams adds another front to this revived battle of New York baseball. If either Bellinger or Alonso switches teams and moves across town, it will give more ammunition to both fan bases heading into what should be an exciting season in 2026.
