The New York Yankees are in an interesting spot as they continue to await a decision from Cody Bellinger. Bellinger’s agent, Scott Boras, is known for maximizing his clients’ earnings, but this situation has dragged on so long that the Yankees have finally made their final offer—and now, whatever happens, happens.
“Yankees have made an internal decision not to engage in a bidding war for Cody Bellinger if Mets or anyone else swoops in with a blow-away offer. Yankees believe they've made a fair proposal—five years, $160 million, two opt-outs. They're prepared to let Bellinger walk," Newark Star-Ledger veteran Bob Klapisch reported.
The Yankees would love for Bellinger to return, but the decision is taking time. MLB reporter Jim Bowden indicated that a Bellinger decision should be coming soon.
“Cody Bellinger is mulling over multiple offers from multiple teams and is expected to make a decision shortly,” Bowden posted.
Even if Bellinger doesn’t sign, the Yankees still have opportunities to bolster their roster. Fansided’s Christopher Kline suggests they could improve their rotation by signing Chris Bassitt.
“The New York Yankees will begin the 2026 season in a world of hurt on the mound. Gerrit Cole, Clarke Schmidt, and Carlos Rodón are all on the IL. The Yankees could aim much higher than this—perhaps with a trade for Freddy Peralta or MacKenzie Gore—but Chris Bassitt is a smart, low-stakes signing without much baggage. He also happens to come over from a division rival. Insider info can't hurt,” Kline wrote.
The rotation is expected to struggle early in the season, making Bassitt a valuable, experienced option. Even if the Yankees can’t land Bellinger, adding a noteworthy arm remains a priority this offseason.
In a way, the Yankees have been on hold while waiting for Bellinger’s decision. However, locking up Bassitt wouldn’t be a bad move. Whether Bellinger returns to New York or not, the team still needs pitching.
More MLB news:
Braves $38M clubhouse leader, Gold Glove winner, World Series champion could retire after 2026 season
Phillies reportedly deciding fate of $20M veteran before Spring Training after Bo Bichette whiff
Mets' offseason plan could reportedly make frightening MLB history with Bo Bichette, Jorge Polanco
Braves make Mauricio Dubon plan crystal clear amid Ha-Seong Kim injury, $1M Jorge Mateo decision
Phillies predicted to part ways with $100M letdown, sign $165M former MVP in corresponding move
CBS insider labels Dodgers' Kyle Tucker signing 'tip of the iceberg,' warns MLB of future dilemma
Mets reportedly make puzzling Cody Bellinger decision after losing Kyle Tucker to Dodgers
Braves sign $1.2M exciting prospect with Gold Glove potential, possible Michael Harris replacement