The New York Yankees remain in the mix for Cody Bellinger, even as the New York Mets continue to pursue him following their acquisition of Bo Bichette. As the MLB offseason reaches a pivotal stage, several high-profile free agents—including Bellinger—have yet to determine their next destination. Bellinger has stayed quiet about his plans, leaving both New York clubs in a waiting game.
The Mets, fresh off signing Bichette, are still intent on building a star-studded roster. After failing to land Kyle Tucker, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them turn their attention fully toward Bellinger as a potential addition under manager Carlos Mendoza. On the other side of town, the Yankees risk missing out on multiple superstar options, which could push them toward an alternative solution if Bellinger doesn’t return.
According to Empire State Media’s Alexander Wilson, if the Yankees are unable to re-sign Bellinger, St. Louis Cardinals All-Star Brendan Donovan could emerge as a strong replacement candidate for the 2026 season.
Wilson noted that while losing Bellinger’s Gold Glove-caliber defense in the outfield would be a setback, Donovan brings a different, but equally valuable, skill set that meshes well with the Yankees’ current roster needs.
Donovan would give New York a left-handed hitter known for elite contact skills and exceptional versatility, making him one of the most adaptable players potentially available. During the 2025 season, he posted a .287/.353/.422 slash line in 118 games, good for a 119 wRC+, meaning he was 19 percent better than league average offensively. That performance earned him an All-Star nod.
Although Donovan lacks the traditional power associated with middle-of-the-order bats, his plate discipline and ability to get on base would provide stability to a Yankees lineup that has often struggled with strikeouts. His low swing-and-miss profile and strong on-base percentage would help balance the offense.
Meanwhile, the Mets are still aggressively chasing Bellinger. Even after committing three years and $126 million to Bichette, owner Steve Cohen reportedly remains focused on landing the versatile outfielder, viewing him as a key final addition to an already formidable 2026 lineup featuring Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor.
