MLB Insider Urges Cody Bellinger Rebuff Yankees for Eyebrow-Raising NL Cellar-Dweller

The New York Yankees acquired Cody Bellinger last offseason, and he ended up having a good enough year to opt out of his contract in hopes of signing a more lucrative deal.

Bellinger was one of the Yankees’ best players last season and is now one of the best free agents available. Many contenders and big market teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets have checked in on him, according to MLB inisder Jon Heyman. However, The Athletic’s Jim Bowden wants to see him sign a six-year, $168 million deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand reported earlier this offseason that the Pirates are looking to increase their payroll this offseason. They may feel pressure to build a contender around Paul Skenes to maximize their chances of winning or convincing him to stay.

Bellinger slashed .272/.335/.480 and hit the most home runs he has since his MVP season with the Dodgers in 2019. The Pirates leading home run hitter last season was Oneil Cruz with 20. Bellinger had 29 homers. With Tommy Pham on the open market, Bellinger could replace him.

Bellinger would join Cruz and Bryan Reynolds in the outfield as the Pirates look to be more competitive. The Pirates have some good players, but need more slug as a team. Bellinger would be able to bring that.

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