Belli’s market remains fluid as several teams circle a top free-agent outfielder and first baseman.
ORLANDO, Fla. — Scott Boras couldn’t resist a playful, pun-filled riff when discussing Cody Bellinger’s free-agent market at the Signia by Hilton Orlando during the Winter Meetings. The veteran agent teased a bustling landscape for the former MVP, hinting that multiple clubs could pursue a player who brings five tools to the table.
“Judgment isn’t mine to make, but elite players shine when their bat makes a loud statement,” Boras quipped, weaving baseball wordplay as he described interest in Bellinger. “I haven’t met a team that avoids a five-tool contributor. A center-field upgrade can be a decisive step toward contending.”
“Across the board, outfield power is a coveted profile,” he continued. “In this off-season, many organizations are eager to invest in versatile performers. Beyond that, it’s fair to say Belli isn’t lacking interest.”
Winter Meetings coverage continues, with Boras’ remarks fueling speculation about a market that could include the Yankees, Reds, Mets, Dodgers, Phillies, Giants, Blue Jays, and Angels for the 2025–26 offseason.
Bellinger, who’s widely regarded as one of the top free-agent outfielders, is in that elite tier alongside Kyle Tucker. The Yankees have publicly expressed interest in re-signing the 30-year-old after he opted out of his contract following a strong first season in New York.
Last season, Bellinger appeared in 152 games for the Yankees, posting a line of .272/.334/.480 with 89 runs, 25 doubles, five triples, 29 home runs, 98 RBIs, and 13 stolen bases.
Upon arriving in Orlando for the meetings, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said Bellinger would be a great fit for the club. “I think he’d be a terrific addition for anyone,” Cashman stated, praising Bellinger’s multi-position versatility, left- and right-handed hitting, and contact ability. He suggested the environment could suit him well.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone also offered high praise, highlighting Bellinger’s overall impact — from clubhouse presence to performance on both sides of the ball, plus his athletic versatility. Boone noted that Bellinger now reaches free agency as a relatively young veteran, and left the door open to see how the process unfolds.
Although Cashman indicated the Yankees’ lineup leans left-handed, Bellinger’s proficiency against left-handed pitching stood out. He hit .353 against southpaws this past season, ranking among the best in the majors for batting average against lefties.
With a broad market for a two-time All-Star (2017, 2019) and two-time Silver Slugger winner (2019, 2023), Boras warned that predicting a signing timeline is difficult. “Markets are unpredictable, especially when owners get involved and act quickly,” he said. “That’s happened before, and it could happen again.”
Yankees’ managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner has said payroll considerations are in play, following a 2025 season that finished around $319 million. Yet Cashman emphasized there has been no formal payroll cap communicated from ownership.
Boras said he’s also fielded inquiries from the Yankees about right-hander Tatsuya Imai, but he stressed there are no indications that New York plans to restrict spending. “When Cashman, Randy Levine, or ownership call, they’re discussing acquisitions, not budget limits,” Boras asserted. He recalled New York’s aggressive pursuit of Juan Soto last year, noting the organization’s willingness to pursue top talent with vigor and flexibility.”
