The New York Yankees have been one of the lesser active teams in free agency this winter. While the New York Mets have signed former Yankees' relievers Devin Williams and Luke Weaver, the Yankees have stood pat so far.
But, while the Yankees haven't made any moves of note this winter, they are still in hot pursuit of outfielder Cody Bellinger in free agency. But with other clubs, like the Mets, showing interest, the Yankees will have a tough time re-signing him this offseason.
Fortunately, according to former MLB GM Jim Bowden of The Athletic, the Yankees got some good news on a potential free agent reunion with Bellinger despite interest from the Mets and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Ex-MLB GM reveals good news for Yankees' odds for Cody Bellinger
"The market for Cody Bellinger is robust, with the most likely result that he signs with a big market, contending team, as expected," Bowden reports, "with the Yankees, Mets, and Dodgers the most likely landing spots for him at this point in that order."
This report from Bowden doesn't reveal too much initially, with the Yankees, Mets, and Dodgers' interest being well known. And while Bellinger's plan to sign with a big market is of note, the more interesting piece of news comes at the very end.
Bellinger has three suitors, with the Yankees listed as the most likely landing spot for him this winter. That means that the Yankees are likely the favorites to sign the 2019 MVP this offseason.
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Despite interest from the Mets and Dodgers, the Yankees are still perceived as the favorites to bring Bellinger back on a multi-year deal worth well north of $100 million.
While Bellinger will continue to draw interest, and the Yankees will continue to be among the least active teams this winter, their interest in Bellinger remains strong, and a reunion this winter is the most likely outcome at this time.
If the Yankees pivot to another position player or spend the money elsewhere, Bellinger might wind up departing. But, for now, the Yankees have a strong chance of bringing the star outfielder/first baseman back for the long haul.
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