The New York Mets gut-punched their crosstown rivals, the New York Yankees, when they signed Juan Soto last offseason. Now, they have a chance to throw another punch.
According to Fansided’s Zachary Rotman, the Mets are the top landing spot for former MVP and All-Star Cody Bellinger, as they could offer a short-term, high AAV deal that blows other suitors out of the water. Bellinger was a key player on the Yankees last season, and getting him from there would be a massive blow.
“Still, even with Bichette in town, the Mets are reportedly interested in signing Bellinger to a short-term high-AAV deal, similar to the kind of contract Bichette just agreed to. Bellinger agreeing to such a deal, especially after just opting out of one, is probably unlikely, but what if the Mets offer him an absurd AAV, much like they did with Bichette…The fit with Bellinger is obvious. New York still needs to add at least one outfielder to the mix alongside Juan Soto, and even with Bichette, could use another big bat. David Stearns emphasized run prevention early this offseason, and Bellinger, a tremendous defender, would help in that regard,” Rotman wrote.
This past season, Bellinger slashed.272/.334/.480/.813 with 25 doubles, 29 home runs, and 98 RBI in 152 games played. He would slot in the outfield with Juan Soto and create a fearsome lineup with Soto, Bo Bichette, and Francisco Lindor.
However, as Rotman noted, this hinges on Bellinger being willing to accept a short-term, high AAV deal. He’s projected to receive a six-year, $182 million deal, and if he can find someone offering that, he’ll probably take that over the Mets.
Hopefully for the Mets, Bellinger doesn’t get that projected offer, so they can swoop right in and take another superstar from under the Yankees’ noses.
MORE MLB NEWS
NL East contender revealed as top rival to Dodgers in Freddy Peralta trade sweepstakes