With free agency heating up, the New York Yankees and New York Mets are both pursuing outfielder Cody Bellinger. However, they face stiff competition, and only one of the teams can secure his services. This scenario leaves the potential for disappointment, especially if the Toronto Blue Jays enter the fray and complicate matters further.
According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, both New York teams are also considering Austin Hays as a viable alternative should they fail to land Bellinger. The outfielder, who spent the 2025 season with the Cincinnati Reds, posted a solid .768 OPS during his time there. Hays is particularly adept against left-handed pitchers and possesses speed, making him a versatile option in the outfield.
The Mets may have a more pressing need for Hays, as they continue to seek solutions for their centerfield position. In contrast, the Yankees boast a deeper outfield but may lack the high-end talent that Bellinger represents. If the Yankees or Mets secure Bellinger, the other team will have to pivot to Hays, which adds an intriguing layer to this offseason’s narrative.
As the free agency period progresses, the decisions made by both franchises will be closely monitored. The competition for talent like Bellinger and Hays highlights the strategic maneuvers involved in Major League Baseball, where every choice can significantly impact a team’s season.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how these developments unfold, particularly in relation to the fierce rivalry between the Yankees and Mets. If one team emerges with Bellinger while the other settles for Hays, it could shape the dynamics of the upcoming season in the highly competitive landscape of the MLB.
